OLYMPIA, Wash. (CNN) – In Washington, the governor has declared a state of emergency after the CDC confirmed 26 cases of the measles.
The measles is highly contagious and can be deadly if small kids get it.
The most recognizable symptom is a red, blotchy rash, but the measles can also cause coughing, a runny nose, inflamed eyes, a sore throat, and fever.
Governor Jay Inslee is calling this an “extreme public health risk that may quickly spread.”
The decision to declare a state of emergency means state agencies and departments can use state resources to help manage the outbreak. It also means they can reach out to other states they need to.
Of the 26 cases confirmed cases, 16 are in kids from as young as 1 up to just 10 years old, with 4 cases in kids 11 to 18 and one adult case.
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