Measles Scare: California Hospital Alerts 300 Individuals for Possible Exposure
Following a recent case of measles treatment at a Sacramento hospital, authorities are urgently reaching out to approximately 300 individuals who may have come into contact with the contagious virus. Stay informed about this developing situation to ensure your health and safety.
A California medical facility is reaching out to approximately 300 individuals who may have been exposed to measles. This comes after a child received treatment for the contagious illness at a Sacramento hospital last week, according to officials.
The child, who had recently returned from international travel, was seen at UC Davis Health's emergency department on March 5 between 12 p.m. and 5 p.m. PT. Sacramento County officials shared this information in a news release.
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The hospital reassured that they have the situation under control and have started reaching out to around 300 individuals at the facility who may have been exposed. They mentioned that there are no other potential exposures at UC Davis Medical Center other than those already identified and contacted.
According to a news release from hospital officials, UC Davis has a list of every patient and staff member present in the Emergency Department that day. They are sending notifications about possible exposure through phone calls, the online messaging portal of the electronic medical record, letters, face-to-face communication, and to the care teams of patients who were admitted from the Emergency Department during that time frame.
If you are not vaccinated against measles or if your vaccination status is unknown and you visited UC Davis Medical Center's emergency department recently, you may be at risk of getting measles within seven to 21 days after being exposed, according to Sacramento County public health officials.
If you were potentially exposed, it is important to check your immunization records, get in touch with your healthcare provider, and keep an eye out for any signs of illness.
"Individuals who may be at risk of exposure are being contacted by the Infection Prevention team. At the same time, care teams looking after current inpatients are being informed about the importance of following proper infection prevention protocols," the news release stated.
SALT LAKE CITY, UT - APRIL 26: In this photo illustration a 10 pack and one dose bottles of measles, mumps and rubella virus vaccine, made by MERCK, sits on a counter at the Salt Lake County Health Department on April 26, 2019 in Salt Lake City, Utah. (Photo Illustration by George Frey/Getty Images)
In this photo illustration, you can see a 10 pack and one dose bottles of the measles, mumps, and rubella virus vaccine made by MERCK. These are placed on a counter at the Salt Lake County Health Department in Salt Lake City, Utah. The photo was taken by George Frey/Getty Images.
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The child was initially spotted at San Joaquin Urgent Care in El Dorado County. Officials there suggested that "a small number of residents" might have been exposed, as stated in a separate news release.
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, measles is a highly contagious illness that can result in complications and even death.
Measles usually starts with a mild to moderate fever, a cough, runny nose, and red/watery eyes. Some people may also experience diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. The first sign of measles is often a red, blotchy rash on the face, which then quickly spreads to the chest, back, thighs, and feet.
Health officials explained that measles spreads through the respiratory route and can stay in the air for up to an hour after an infected person coughs or sneezes.
A total of 45 measles cases have been reported in 17 states since the beginning of the year, according to the CDC.
In 2023, the total number of cases recorded was 58.
Rising cases has experts concerned
Public health experts are concerned about the increasing number of cases this year.
"According to Dr. Marcus Plescia, chief medical officer of ASTHO, measles was eliminated in the United States in 2000. However, it remains the most easily transmitted human virus currently circulating. He emphasized the importance of following public health guidelines to prevent outbreaks and protect communities. Vaccination is highlighted as the most effective and safest way to safeguard children."
SALT LAKE CITY, UT - APRIL 26: In this photo illustration a 10 pack and one dose bottles of measles, mumps and rubella virus vaccine, made by MERCK, sits on a counter at the Salt Lake County Health Department on April 26, 2019 in Salt Lake City, Utah. (Photo Illustration by George Frey/Getty Images)
In this photo illustration, you can see a 10 pack and one dose bottles of the measles, mumps, and rubella virus vaccine made by MERCK. The picture was taken at the Salt Lake County Health Department in Salt Lake City, Utah on April 26, 2019. (Photo Illustration by George Frey/Getty Images)
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The CDC states that the rise in measles cases is partly due to declining vaccination rates and increased travel. Unvaccinated individuals can contract measles while abroad and bring it back to the US.
Experts advise that children receive the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine in two doses. The first dose should be given between 12 and 15 months of age, with the second dose between 4 and 6 years old. A single dose is around 93% effective in preventing measles, while two doses provide about 97% effectiveness.
About 92% of children in the US have received the MMR vaccine by age 2, which falls below the federal goal of 95%, as per a 2023 CDC report.
According to CDC data, the percentage of kindergartners who received their state-mandated measles vaccines for the 2022-23 school year also did not meet the federal target. Additionally, the rate of vaccine exemptions for children has hit a record high in the United States.
CNN’s Nadia Kounang, Steve Almasy and Mira Cheng contributed to this report.
Editor's P/S:
The surge in measles cases is alarming, highlighting the urgent need to prioritize vaccination. The highly contagious nature of the virus demands swift action to prevent widespread outbreaks. Healthcare providers and public health officials must remain vigilant in identifying potential exposures and implementing appropriate infection control measures. It is crucial for individuals to stay informed about their vaccination status and to seek medical attention promptly if they experience any symptoms consistent with measles.
Moreover, the declining vaccination rates are a major concern. The MMR vaccine is a safe and effective means of protecting individuals from measles, mumps, and rubella. Parents and caregivers must understand the importance of timely vaccination and adhere to the recommended schedule. By working together, we can ensure that our communities remain protected against this preventable disease., and to seek medical attention if you think you may have been exposed.
