Introduction to Measles Outbreak
A person who traveled to Los Angeles County from abroad has been confirmed to have measles, becoming the fourth case of the disease in a county resident or visitor this year, and prompting health officials today to urge people to get vaccinated.
Details of the Latest Case
According to the county Department of Public Health, the latest patient was not infectious during the time of travel, and there are no public locations in the county where people may have been exposed. Officials at some health care facilities are contacting their own patients and staff who may have been exposed to the traveler.
Warning of Increased Measles Cases
The health agency issued a statement warning of an increase in measles cases among people who have recently traveled internationally and domestically. "With measles outbreaks happening both in the United States and internationally, an increase in cases in our county highlights how important it is for residents to get protected before residents begin making summer travel plans," according to the department. "Public Health encourages all residents to get protected by receiving the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine if they are not immune."
Symptoms and Prevention
Understanding Measles Symptoms
Symptoms of measles can include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes and fatigue. A red rash usually appears one to four days after symptoms begin, starting at the head and then spreading to the lower body. There is no cure or treatment.
Protecting Yourself and Others
Residents were urged to review their immunization and medical records to determine if they have been vaccinated. Residents should also contact their health care provider as soon as possible if they think they’ve been exposed and they are pregnant, have a weakened immune system or are not immunized. Anyone who develops symptoms was asked to stay home and avoid school, work or large gatherings.
Statement from Health Officer
"A person can spread the illness to others before they have symptoms, and it can take seven to 21 days for symptoms to show up after exposure," County Health Officer Dr. Muntu Davis said in a statement. "Measles can lead to severe disease in young children and vulnerable adults. As L.A. County residents begin to travel this summer and with measles cases increasing among those who have recently traveled, we remind everyone that the best way to protect yourself and your family from infection is with the highly effective measles vaccine."
Conclusion
The recent confirmation of a fourth measles case in Los Angeles County highlights the importance of vaccination, especially with summer travel plans approaching. By understanding the symptoms of measles and taking preventive measures, residents can protect themselves and their communities from this highly contagious disease.
FAQs
- Q: What are the symptoms of measles?
- A: Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, fatigue, and a red rash that starts at the head and spreads to the lower body.
- Q: How is measles spread?
- A: Measles is highly contagious and can be spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or by touching surfaces that have come into contact with the virus.
- Q: Is there a cure or treatment for measles?
- A: There is no cure or treatment for measles, but the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly effective in preventing the disease.
- Q: Who should get vaccinated?
- A: All residents who are not immune should receive the MMR vaccine, especially before traveling internationally or domestically.
- Q: What should I do if I think I’ve been exposed to measles?
- A: Contact your health care provider as soon as possible, especially if you are pregnant, have a weakened immune system, or are not immunized. Stay home and avoid large gatherings if you develop symptoms.
