Rare, Contagious, Deadly Virus Has Been Found in Michigan—Again

Michigan's racking up another unwanted stat in 2025: the fourth case of an extremely contagious and deadly disease has been confirmed in the state, this time in Montcalm County. Health officials say the person had recently traveled out of the state, and so far, they're still sorting out whether anyone else in Michigan may have been exposed.

RELATED: Warning: Highly Contagious Illness Spreading in Michigan Youth

I'm not sugarcoating anything when I say that this disease is no joke. It's one of the most contagious out there. If someone nearby hasn't been vaccinated for it, their odds of catching it increase by 90%, and it doesn't wait for you to feel lousy to start spreading it.

Fourth Case of Measles in 2025 Confirmed in Montcalm County

Measles is nothing to and Mid-Michigan District Health Officer Liz Broaddock, who shared with WILX that those who have yet to get the vaccination are putting themselves and those they are close with at risk. She goes on to say that even if you were exposed, the measles vaccine can stop the disease in its tracks if you get it within 72 hours of exposure.

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Early signs you've contracted measles include a high fever (north of 104°), a nasty cough, runny nose, and eyes that look like you've been watching Nicolas Sparks movies on repeat. If that's not enough, it also comes with white spots in your mouth (say ah), followed by a red rash that starts on your face and takes a full tour of your body from there.

The Bottomline to Protecting Yourself From Measles in Michigan

If you don't have or haven't vaccinated members of your family for measles, health department officials in Michigan and around the country urge you to get them. If you're not protected, you're putting everyone around you at risk.

RELATED: Changing Attitudes: Sending Sick Children To School In Michigan

Remember, kids don't share much, but they love sharing bugs. Be careful, Michigan.