OCONTO COUNTY (WLUK) -- The Oconto County Fair brings thousands of guests to the fairground to enjoy rides, snacks, and animals. But with new measles cases being reported in the county, just last week, there is growing concern.
"I am concerned about it, I haven't had measles, and I was vaccinated against measles when I was little, but I don't know if it's worn off, whether I should get another booster," said Pam Kritz, a community member.
The Fair Board had discussions about people gathering for the fair, with measles being reported, but decided not to make any changes.
"County health has been aware of the whole situation and they're handling it on their end on making sure that everyone is appropriately quarantining themselves," said Jake Kasten, the President of the Oconto County Fair Board.
Last week, five new measles cases were identified in Oconto County. Health officials say they are linked to the original nine from earlier this month--indicating community spread.
"These cases are being identified as we continue to see cases of measles across the United States, with cases being reported in 42 states so far this year," said Traci DeSalvo, Director, DHS Bureau of Communicable Diseases.
How infectious is it?
"If an individual with measles is in an indoor space or a room and there's ten individuals who are not protected; we anticipate that nine out of those ten will come down with measles," said PhD Stephanie Schauer, Wisconsin Immunization Program Manager.
"The virus remains suspended in the air for up to two hours and someone who is not protected, if they come in during that time period, can contract measles, so there doesn't need to be a face-to-face opportunity for infection," said Schauer.
Health experts say the best way to protect yourself is to be vaccinated.
"The measles vaccine, one dose is 93% effective, and two doses is 97% and so we really encourage whether you're traveling, you're playing, doing what you want make sure you're protecting yourself, so you don't have to worry about going to events or getting together with folks," said Schauer.
If you were born before 1957 or if you've ever been vaccinated, you're considered to be protected with one exception
"There's a very small number of individuals born between 1963-1967 who may have received a measles vaccine that is less effective and for those individuals they are recommended to receive an additional dose of the measles, mumps, rubella vaccine," said Schauer.
What should you do?
"Today, our recommendation to the public is check your vaccination status and know if you are protected against measles," said DeSalvo.
It's the best way to prevent the spread, and to help avoid any disruptions to your day-to-day life.