VANCOUVER, Wash. (KOIN) — It’s been about three weeks since Clark County has had any new measles cases, and while the number remains at 73, the costs may surprise you.

The Clark County Public Health provided a breakdown of the total response cost. As of March 26, the agency has spent $823,294.

  • Public health staff: $595,284
  • Contracted staff, including interpreters and call center: $154,296
  • Public health staff mileage: $1,205
  • Volunteer travel, including mileage and lodging: $18,187
  • Staff meals: $25,530
  • Supplies: $19,463
  • Postage/shipping: $9,355

As a reminder, health officials said the outbreak will not be considered officially over until the county goes 42 days with no new cases. 

Measles information: 

Measles is a highly contagious virus spread through the air. It can linger in a room up to two hours after someone with the virus has been there and you can catch it even before the sick person develops a rash. 

The virus starts with a fever and can also cause a runny nose, cough, red eyes, ear infection, diarrhea and a rash of tiny red spots starting at the head and then spreading. It is especially dangerous for babies and young children. 

The CDC said almost everyone who has not been vaccinated will get the virus if they are exposed.