Oklahoma doctor explains different types of measles tests

NORMAN, Okla. (KFOR) - After a measles scare in Oklahoma turned out to be a misunderstanding, we're learning more about the testing process after measles is suspected.

"I've been a doctor for 20 years and I've never seen measles," said Dr. Kate Cook with Norman Regional Hospital. "Unfortunately, here we are."

Tuesday, Bartlesville Public Schools announced a staff member had measles.

The Oklahoma State Health Department later said that person was positive for having immunity, but negative for the measles virus.

Dr. Cook said it's been a long time since this disease was a concern. The WHO declared it was eliminated from the US in 2000.

"All of us are having to kind of refresh of things that we've learned about a disease that we thought was in our past," said Dr. Cook.

She said it starts out like the common cold, with a cough, stuffy nose, red eyes, a fever, and white spots on the inside of the cheek.

Then, a few days later, the rash starts.

"It starts at the hairline then spreads down the face and rest of the body," said Dr. Cook. "It can be a few spots here and there."

Cook said there are two ways to test for measles.

"I think that's where the test results can get a little confusing," said Dr. Cook.

There's the antibody test, which shows if you've had the measles or the vaccine.

Then, there's a throat swab. However, most hospitals don't have the actual test, so it has to be sent off to a lab.

"So ,it could take awhile to get back unfortunately for this infection that could be very contagious," said Dr. Cook.

In a statement, the OSDH said "While residents may be tested and diagnosed at a health care facility, that facility must work with the OSDH to confirm a positive case."

The department also has an on-call epidemiologist to help.

"As vaccine skepticism and hesitancy increases, we're unfortunately seeing these diseases come back," said Dr. Cook. "As a pediatrician and a mom, the safest thing you can do is get the vaccine."

The doctor said measles is one of the most contagious infections. You're most contagious four days before the rash and four days after. If measles is suspected, the patient must make sure they're isolated as much as possible.