The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services reported on Tuesday that a child recently diagnosed with measles visited Forsyth and Guilford counties, marking the state’s first confirmed case of the year. The child contracted the disease while traveling from a country experiencing recent measles outbreaks.
State health officials are collaborating with local health departments to identify possible locations and times where others may have been exposed to the virus. They have released a list of specific venues that were visited during particular timeframes, urging individuals who were present to review their immunization records.
Locations of potential exposure include:
– Piedmont Triad International Airport (Thursday 11:30 p.m. to Friday 1:30 a.m.)
– Sleep Inn in Kernersville on various dates and times throughout the weekend
– McDonald’s and Greensboro Science Center on Friday
– Lowes Foods in Kernersville on Saturday
Those who were in these locations during the mentioned times are encouraged to contact their healthcare provider to confirm they are up-to-date with their measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccination. Symptoms of measles can appear 7 to 21 days after exposure, which include fever and a rash. If symptoms do arise, individuals should contact a healthcare professional before visiting to prevent potential further exposure.
Dr. Dev Sangvai, Secretary of the NC Department of Health and Human Services, emphasized the importance of vaccination as the best defense against measles, recommending that individuals ensure they have received all necessary vaccinations.
Additionally, those exposed to measles might be eligible for post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), a treatment that can help prevent illness. PEP is especially vital for those who are too young for the MMR vaccine, those without proper vaccination, immunocompromised individuals, and pregnant women.
This occurrence serves as a reminder of the importance of vaccination and awareness in preventing outbreaks, particularly given the rise in measles cases globally. Staying informed and proactive about vaccinations plays a crucial role in protecting both individuals and communities from infectious diseases.