Very scary news for all of you parents out there–according to public health officials around the nation, the measles is officially back. Its unwelcome return has hit a number of dense areas, but it’s the outbreaks in both New York state and parts of the Pacific Northwest that currently have people most worried.

Believe it or not, the State of Washington has even declared a state of emergency because so many have contracted the virus. According to the Washington State Department of Health, there have been 35 confirmed cases of measles in Clark County and one confirmed case in King County. In addition to those, there are another 11 suspected cases within the state. In terms of New York, officials say they are currently experiencing the second largest outbreak in the last two decades.

In case you are not familiar with the illness, here are some quick facts via the CDC:

• Measles is a disease spread by a highly contagious virus that is most often contracted by sneezing and exposure to a measles rash.
• Measles typically begins with a high fever (up to 104-degrees), cough, runny nose, and red watery eyes.
• 3-5 days after contracting the virus, patients typically experience a rash that spreads from the scalp downwards.

While measles isn’t necessarily fatal in most people, it can be a dangerous disease for those with compromised immune systems (i.e. patients who could not be vaccinated).

Startling news indeed! To learn more details about this shocking state of emergency in Washington, be sure to watch the video below. You’ll get info on the areas most affected by the outbreak, as well as professional advice on what to do if you think that you or a loved one might have contracted the virus. Stay safe, folks!

We’d love to get your take on these measles outbreaks. Are you concerned that your child could be exposed to the virus? Did you choose to not vaccinate your kid? If so, is this news making you regret your decision?