Voz media US Voz.us

California: Possible measles outbreak warned in Sacramento

Authorities confirmed two cases in unvaccinated children. At least 100 children may have been exposed to measles at an educational enrichment program.

Woman prepares measles syringe.

Woman prepares measles syringe.Schneyder Mendoza / AFP.

Williams Perdomo
Published by

Authorities in Sacramento, Calif., reported confirmed cases of measles in two unvaccinated children. In addition, it was learned from outlets such as The New York Post that at least 100 children may have been exposed to measles in an educational enrichment program.

“Measles is highly contagious and can easily be brought back into our community through travel ... the most important step for people to take right now is to make sure you and your family are up to date on the measles vaccination,” explained Sacramento County Public Health Officer Dr. Olivia Kasirye.

Meanwhile, officials explained that Kaiser Permanente Roseville Medical Center has identified patients and staff who may have been exposed and is coordinating with the Sacramento County Department of Public Health (SCPH) to notify those individuals.

"The hospital implemented appropriate infection control measures once measles was suspected and alerted public health officials. Anyone who was at the above location during the date and time listed may be at risk of developing measles and should contact SCPH’s Communicable Disease Program," the department said in a statement.

Measles is highly contagious

Measles is highly contagious and is spread through the air and on surfaces. People can get measles simply by being in the same room with someone who is infected. The first symptoms usually appear eight to 12 days after exposure and include fever, cough, runny nose and eye redness, followed by a rash that spreads from the face to the rest of the body.

The Sacramento County Department of Public Health indicated that measles can cause serious complications, especially in infants, young children and people with weakened immune systems.
tracking