A California medical facility is on high alert as it attempts to reach approximately 300 individuals who may have been exposed to measles.
The scare arose after a child, who had recently returned from international travel, was treated for the highly contagious viral illness at a hospital in Sacramento.
Assurance of Control
UC Davis Health’s emergency department evaluated the child on March 5 between 12 pm and 5 pm PT, prompting officials to take swift action. The hospital assures the public that it has the situation under control, having initiated contact with those potentially exposed.
The facility maintains detailed records of patients and employees in the emergency department on that specific day, facilitating notifications through various channels such as phone calls, online messaging, letters, and in-person communication.
Individuals who are unvaccinated against measles or have an unknown vaccination status and were present in the UC Davis Medical Center’s emergency department during the specified timeframe are at risk.
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Measles Symptoms and Transmission
Public health officials in Sacramento County warn of the potential development of measles symptoms between seven to 21 days after exposure. Healthcare professionals advise those at risk to review their immunization records, consult with their healthcare providers, and monitor themselves for any signs of illness.
Infection prevention teams are actively reaching out to those in jeopardy, and care teams for current inpatients are being briefed on the importance of following proper infection prevention processes.
The child in question was initially seen at San Joaquin Urgent Care in El Dorado County, where a small number of residents may have been exposed, according to officials. Measles is a highly contagious disease that can lead to severe complications and, in some cases, prove fatal.
Health officials describe symptoms ranging from a mild to moderate fever, cough, runny nose, and red/watery eyes to more severe manifestations like diarrhea and vomiting. The virus spreads through the respiratory route and can linger in the air for up to an hour.
This incident comes amid rising measles cases, with 45 reported in 17 states since the beginning of the year, raising concerns among public health experts.
The increase is attributed to falling vaccination rates and increased travel, emphasizing the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage to prevent outbreaks and protect communities.
Experts stress the effectiveness of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is about 97% effective with two doses, highlighting the need for timely vaccinations to curb the resurgence of this once-eliminated disease.
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