PORTLAND, Ore. — Health officials have identified two new potential measles exposure sites in Marion County and are urging anyone who may have been exposed to contact a health care provider immediately.
The Oregon Health Authority (OHA), in coordination with Marion County public health officials, announced the locations and exposure windows tied to a confirmed case of measles.
Individuals may have been exposed if they were at the following locations in Keizer on Monday, March 30:
- Solar Nails, 4910 River Road N., between 12 p.m. and 4:15 p.m.
- Pho Keizer, 3400 River Road N., between 2:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.
Health officials advise anyone present at those locations during the specified times to contact their health care provider as soon as possible. Providers can assess a person’s immunity based on vaccination records, age, or prior infection.
Highly contagious virus
Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. According to OHA, individuals can spread the virus from four days before a rash appears until four days afterward. 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.
While many cases resolve, complications can occur. Common issues include ear infections, pneumonia and diarrhea. In rare cases, measles can cause brain swelling, which can be life-threatening.
Higher risk groups
Health officials warn that measles can be especially dangerous for children under 5, adults over 20, pregnant individuals and those with weakened immune systems. In developed countries, one to three out of every 1,000 measles cases can be fatal.
Vaccination remains the most effective protection. Two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing infection, and severe illness is rare among those who are fully vaccinated.
What to do if you have symptoms
Public health officials urge anyone who may have measles symptoms not to visit a clinic or hospital without calling ahead.
People should call a health care provider first if they:
- Have a rash consistent with measles, or
- Have been exposed within the past 21 days and are experiencing symptoms such as fever, cough or red eyes
Calling ahead allows medical staff to take precautions and prevent exposing others in waiting areas.
More information about measles and vaccination is available through the Oregon Health Authority website.
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