Important Measles Exposure Alert from Rockland County Health Department: What You Need to Know

Officials have reported potential exposure to measles at two locations in Monsey, New York. If you visited Amazing Savings on November 17 from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. or Target on November 18 from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m., you may want to take some precautions.

Health experts urge anyone who was at these places, especially those in high-risk groups, to reach out to their healthcare provider right away. High-risk groups include pregnant women, infants under six months, and those who have weakened immune systems or haven’t received the measles vaccine.

Measles is alarmingly contagious. Research shows that about 90% of unvaccinated people exposed to the virus will get infected. What’s surprising is that you can catch it just by being in the same room as someone who has it, even hours after they’ve left. The virus can spread before symptoms appear, making it tricky to identify potential exposure.

After being exposed, symptoms generally show up within 10 to 12 days, but they can surprise you and come as early as seven days or as late as 21 days. For unvaccinated individuals, complications can be severe, including conditions like pneumonia and encephalitis.

If you have any questions or concerns about measles, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider or check with the Rockland County Department of Health for guidance.

Source link

measles,Rockland County Department of Health