By SDCN Editor
San Diego, CA–The County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency has confirmed the first case of measles in the region this year.
A 1-year-old child, who had recently traveled overseas, has tested positive for the highly contagious disease, public health officials said on Friday.
This marks the first reported case of measles since 2019 when the county recorded two instances – one involving an unvaccinated infant, and the other a vaccinated individual who had close contact with the child.
The affected unimmunized infant is currently under hospital care, raising concerns about potential exposure to others. county health officials have identified specific locations where the child may have been exposed to individuals:
- Super China Buffett, 7984 La Mesa Blvd, La Mesa
- Dates and times: 01/28/24 from 1:30 PM to 5:00 PM.
- Hilton Head County Park, 1605 Hilton Head Road, El Cajon
- Dates and times: 01/28/24 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
- Grossmont Pediatrics, 6942 University Ave A, La Mesa
- Dates and times: 01/31/24 from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
- Rady Children’s Emergency Department, 3020 Children’s Way, 1st Floor San Diego, CA 92123
- Dates and times: 02/01/24 from 09:20 AM to 04:30 PM.
Health authorities are collaborating with Grossmont Pediatrics and Rady Children’s Hospital to trace and follow up with patients and staff. Super China Buffet management has also been contacted to identify and follow up with exposed staff. The County Epidemiology Program is working to determine vaccination status and assess the potential risk for measles transmission.
Dr. Wilma J. Wooten, County public health officer, emphasizes the contagious nature of measles and urges anyone present at the specified locations and times to monitor for symptoms. Early symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes, with a distinctive rash appearing one to four days later.
Measles, which develops seven to 21 days after exposure, is preventable through vaccination. Dr. Wooten advises that all international travelers, especially infants between 6 and 12 months, receive vaccinations.
Complications are more common in children under 5 and adults over 20, including diarrhea, ear infections, and pneumonia. Severe cases can lead to death, particularly in younger children and adults. No specific treatment for measles exists; however, supportive care, rest, and fluids are recommended.
Residents with symptoms are encouraged to contact their healthcare providers in advance to activate infection control measures. The County Health and Human Services Agency Immunization Branch can be reached at (866) 358-2966, and additional information is available on the website at www.sdiz.org.
