A case of the measles has been reported in Contra Costa County and several other community members may have been exposed.

The infected person visited several public places in the county while carrying the illness.

The person also visited Los Angeles and Arizona and those places have been alerted.

“Most people have been vaccinated and therefore are protected and not at risk, even if they have shared the same indoor air-space with a contagious person,” said Dr. Chris Farnitano, Contra Costa County Health Officer. “However, residents should be aware of the situation because anyone who was exposed and not protected by vaccine is at risk of developing measles.” 
Children routinely get measles vaccine at one year of age. People born before 1957 are considered immune as they likely had measles as children and developed immunity from the disease.

However, health officials advise that adults born after 1957 should review their vaccination records to ensure they have received the MMR vaccine. They can also talk to their regular healthcare provider for questions about immunization status.

“Pregnant women and people who are HIV-positive or immune-suppressed are considered to be at high risk for measles if they are not vaccinated,” health experts said.

“We have notified people in Contra Costa who were known to be in close contact to the case, but not every potential contact at a public venue can be identified. Anyone who visited the following locations during the indicated dates and times could have potentially been exposed to the measles virus and should check immunity status,” said Paul Leung, Communicable Disease Programs Chief with Contra Costa Public Health. 
• Aug. 11 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at John Muir Medical Center, Walnut Creek Emergency Department, 1601 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek 
• Aug. 14 from 9 a.m.-11 a.m. at Chow Restaurant, 53 Lafayette Circle, Lafayette 

John Muir has identified and contacted all patients and their companions who were present at the time.

A note from Contra Costa Public Health:

Measles symptoms can begin one to three weeks after exposure and include high fever, runny nose, coughing and watery red eyes. A rash develops on the face and neck two to three days after the fever begins, and spreads down the body. The rash usually lasts five or six days. An infected person is contagious for several days before and after the rash appears.

Health officials urge anyone who shows symptoms of measles to contact their healthcare provider immediately. 
Information about measles is available online at cchealth.org/measles. Contra Costa County residents may also call 925-313-6740 for information. 

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