The Suffolk County Health Services Department, in Long Island, has been notified of a measles case confirmed by laboratory in a non -vaccinated local local resident.
The Health Authorities of Suffolk, in coordination with the New York State Health Department and Northwell Health, are investigating the case and taking the necessary proactive measures to prevent the propagation of measles.
It has been determined that there was a possible exposure to measles in the people who attended the pediatric emergency service of the Cohen Children’s Medical Center from March 3 to 4, or who visited a hospitalized child in the Medicine Unit 3, from March 3 to 6. These times reflect the period of possible exposure when the infected person was in the identified areas.
The Cohen Children’s Medical Center is contacting patients who came to the Emergency Department and the Pediatrics plant at the time of the possible exposure and has identified high -risk patients who could require timely treatment.
Any person who considers having been exposed should consult with their doctor or pediatrician or communicate with their local health department.
While this research continues, other possible exhibitions are also being evaluated. However, the Suffolk County Health Department has confirmed that the child with measles did not attend the nursery or school while infected.
“While we follow up on this case and monitor the possible exhibitions closely, we strongly recommend all residents who protect their health and that of our youngest and most vulnerable residents, making sure they are up to date with their vaccines against measles and with all the recommended vaccines that save lives,” said Dr. Gregon Pigot, Suffolk Health Services Commissioner.
Highly contagious
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by a virus that spreads when coughing or sneezing. People can contract the virus by inhaling it or by touching a contaminated surface and then touching their eyes, nose or mouth.
Complications may include pneumonia, encephalitis, spontaneous abortion, premature birth, hospitalization and death.
The measles incubation period is up to 21 days. People exposed to measles and not previously vaccinated must remain in quarantine for 21 days after exposure.
Exposed people who have received the triple viral vaccine (MMR) do not need to remain in quarantine, but must automate for 21 days and stay at home if they have symptoms. People diagnosed with measles must be isolated up to 4 days after the appearance of the rashes.
Symptoms and vaccines
Measles symptoms can include high fever, cough, nasal drip and red and crying eyes. From 3 to 5 days after the start of the symptoms, a ravage and flat spots are rash on the face that then extends to the rest of the body.
A person with measles can infect other people from 4 days before the appearance of the rashes up to 4 days later.
The best way to prevent measles is to vaccinate. A dose of the triple viral vaccine (MMR) has an efficacy of approximately 93 % to prevent measles; Two doses have an efficacy of approximately 97 %.
It is recommended to receive two MMR doses to be completely protected. If a person is not sure if he is immune, he must contact his doctor.
In general, the first dose of the MMR should be administered between 12 and 15 months of age, and the second dose between 4 and 6 years (age of entering school).
Families are recommended to travel with a baby under 12 months to contact their pediatrician to determine if your child can receive the measles vaccine early.
Children older than 12 months and adults who have not completed the two dose of the MMR are also recommended to contact their doctors to talk about vaccination before traveling.
Suffolk County Health professionals must report the suspected cases of measles to the Department of Health Services by calling 631-854-0333.
Visit the website of the New York State Department of Health Dedicated to measles to obtain information about this disease, vaccination data and information for health professionals. You can find more information about the measles vaccine in https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/measles/.
