A confirmed case of measles has emerged in Lancaster County, marking the first instance of the disease in the area since 1990. The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department confirmed that the case involves an adult who has been appropriately vaccinated and has no record of out-of-state travel, raising public health concerns due to the highly contagious nature of measles.
Measles is spread through the air via coughing and sneezing, making it crucial for residents to be vigilant. Potential exposure locations have been identified, including Walmart at 4700 N. 27th Street on January 18 between 1:00 and 3:30 p.m., and Med Elite Urgent Care at 7120 S. 69th Street on January 25 from 1:30 to 5:00 p.m. Individuals who were present at these locations during the specified times are encouraged to complete a risk assessment survey provided by the health department.
Kerry Kernen, the Health Director, expressed the expectation that measles would eventually appear in the region, especially as cases increase across the United States and have already been reported in Nebraska. She urged residents who visited the identified locations to check their vaccination status and monitor for symptoms associated with measles.
The health department continues to provide resources for residents seeking information about measles and vaccination measures. In a time when vaccine misinformation rises, this case underscores the importance of maintaining vaccination schedules to prevent outbreaks of preventable diseases.