Massachusetts confirms first case of measles in 2015

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BOSTON (AP) — Health officials have confirmed the first case of measles in Massachusetts this year.

The case was found in a visiting student from Western Europe.

Although measles is very contagious, health officials say more than 95 percent of students in the state have already been vaccinated, making a widespread outbreak unlikely.

According to the health department, early symptoms of measles occur 10 days to two weeks after exposure and may resemble a cold or flu. A skin rash will then occur two to four days after the initial symptoms develop.

People with measles may be contagious for up to four days before and after the rash appears.

People who have had measles in the past or who have been vaccinated against measles are considered immune to the disease.