PORTLAND, Ore. – Public health officials have identified two new locations where people may have been exposed to measles, prompting warnings from the Oregon Health Authority and county health departments.
Officials say potential exposures occurred at the following sites:
- Lark Café between noon and 3 p.m. on Friday, March 27
- Pho.Com between 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 25
Anyone who was at these locations during the specified times is urged to contact a health care provider immediately to assess their risk. Providers can determine immunity based on vaccination history, age, or prior infection.
Officials say those without a primary care provider can establish care through Multnomah County clinics or student health centers by calling 503-988-5558.
How measles spreads
Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Individuals can spread the virus four days before a rash appears and up to four days after. The virus can also remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area.
Symptoms typically begin seven to 21 days after exposure and often include fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes, followed by a rash that starts on the face and spreads across the body.
Risks and complications
Health officials warn that measles can be especially dangerous for young children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. Complications can include ear infections, pneumonia, and diarrhea. In rare cases, swelling of the brain can occur.
In developed countries, about one to three out of every 1,000 measles cases results in death, according to health authorities.
The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine remains highly effective, with two doses providing about 97% protection against infection.
What to do if you have symptoms
Public health officials advise anyone with possible measles symptoms to call ahead before visiting a clinic or hospital, rather than arriving unannounced. This helps prevent exposing others in waiting areas.
People should seek guidance if they:
- Develop a measles-like rash, or
- Have been exposed within the past 21 days and experience symptoms such as fever, cough, or red eyes
Officials emphasize that early communication with medical providers is critical to limit further spread of the virus.
More information about measles is available through the Oregon Health Authority website.
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