GRESHAM, Ore. — Health officials have identified a new measles exposure location in Gresham and are urging anyone who may have been present during the exposure window to contact a health care provider as soon as possible.
The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Multnomah County public health officials announced that exposure may have occurred at the Mt Hood Community College Academic Center Building 17, located at 26000 SE Stark St., between 10 a.m. and 1:50 p.m. on Monday, April 13.
Officials say individuals who were at the location during that time frame should immediately reach out to a medical provider and inform them of the potential exposure. Providers can review vaccination history, age, or laboratory evidence of prior infection to determine immunity.
For those without a primary care provider, Multnomah County encourages residents to establish care through one of its primary care clinics or student health centers by calling 503-988-5558 to schedule an appointment.
The Oregon Health Authority, a state public health agency, emphasized that measles is highly contagious and can spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Virus particles can remain airborne for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area, increasing the risk of indirect exposure in shared indoor spaces.
Public health officials note that individuals with measles are contagious from four days before a rash appears through four days after. Initial symptoms typically include fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes, followed by a rash that begins on the face and spreads across the body. Symptoms generally develop seven to 21 days after exposure.
Complications can include ear infections, pneumonia, and diarrhea. In rare cases, measles can lead to brain swelling. Health officials warn that the illness poses the greatest risk to children under 5, adults over 20, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems.
According to public health data, in developed countries, measles is fatal in roughly one to three out of every 1,000 reported cases. Officials stress that vaccination remains the most effective protection, noting that two doses of the MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing infection. Breakthrough cases in fully vaccinated individuals are considered rare and typically less severe.
Health authorities also advise people experiencing symptoms consistent with measles—or those who may have been exposed within the past 21 days—to avoid entering medical facilities without first calling ahead. This helps prevent further exposure in waiting rooms and clinical settings.
Residents seeking additional information about measles, symptoms, or vaccination guidance are encouraged to visit the Oregon Health Authority’s official website.
About the Author
Discover more from Right Now Oregon
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
