SAN DIEGO–A second local case of measles was reported this week and the public may have exposed at two locations in the county, the County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency reports.
The person was fully immunized but had exposure to the 11-month-old San Diego resident who contracted measles after a recent trip to the Philippines.
The newly diagnosed person may have exposed the public at the following locations: 85˚ Bakery Café, 3361 Rosecrans Street, on Aug. 15, 16, 17 and 18 from 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Ralph’s, 3011 Alta View Drive, on Aug. 16 from approximately 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
The case remains under investigation and it is possible more locations may be identified.
“If you were at any of the locations at the dates and times listed, you should watch for symptoms of measles and call your health care provider if you show any signs of developing the disease,” said Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., County interim deputy public health officer. “Measles is a very contagious disease that can be easily spread by coughing, sneezing or being in the same room with an infected person.”
People with symptoms are asked to telephone their doctor’s office in advance, rather than visit an office directly, so that infection control measures may be activated to prevent exposure to others.
Measles develops seven to 21 days after exposure. Early symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes. The distinctive red rash usually appears one to four days after early symptoms appear. A person is considered contagious four days before the rash appears. The rash typically begins on the face and head then proceeds downward and outward to the hands and feet. It fades in the same order it began, from head to feet.
With measles outbreaks occurring in several countries, including the Philippines, it is very important that all international travelers get vaccinated. Infants between 6 and 12 months of age who travel should get one dose, and travelers over 12 months of age should get two doses at least four weeks apart.
Complications from measles are more common in children younger than 5 years old and adults 20 years and older. Complications can include diarrhea, ear infection and pneumonia. Death can occur from severe complications and the risk is higher among younger children and adults. There is no treatment for measles. Bed rest, fluids and fever control are recommended. People with complications may need treatment for their specific problems.
For more information about measles, other vaccine-preventable diseases and the shots that protect against them, call the HHSA Immunization Branch at (866) 358-2966, or visit the website at www.sdiz.org.
