A second measles case has enthusiastically struck San Diego County, marking the latest development in a worrisome trend of the contagious disease's appearances this year. A 47-year-old resident, freshly back from overseas travel, has been confirmed to carry the virus and is now hospitalized, as announced by the County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency.
Though unrelated to the first case earlier this year involving an unvaccinated infant, the county is bracing to quickly contain any further spread. This adult patient, whose travel was supposed not to bring back such an unwelcome souvenir, may have unwittingly exposed others while frequenting locations in both the Encinitas and Carlsbad areas.
Public health staff from the County's Epidemiology and Immunization Services Branch are diligently working with medical facilities like Scripps Encinitas Hospital and Scripps Coastal Medical Center. Their mission is clear: to track down and follow up with potentially exposed patients and healthcare workers.
In an expansive move to safeguard public health, County Public Health Services are also coordinating with multiple possibly affected sites. They aim robustly to identify and monitor staff members who might have been exposed to the virus. County News Center reported an extensive list of places and times where exposure could have occurred, spanning from local cafes to medical centers, over a string of days from March 22 to March 30.
"Measles is a very contagious disease that can be spread easily by coughing, sneezing, or being in the same room with an infected person," said Ankita Kadakia, M.D., County deputy public health officer, in a statement obtained by County News Center. They advised that anyone present at the listed establishments during the specified dates should stay vigilant for symptoms and get in touch with their healthcare provider if any signs of the disease begin to show.
Measles can manifest symptoms anywhere from seven to 21 days after exposure. These include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and the hallmark red rash that follows. The infected are considered contagious from four days prior to the rash's appearance to four days after. Kadakia underscored the vital importance of getting vaccinated against measles, especially with outbreaks in various countries and the increased risk for international travellers.
While there's no cure for measles itself, supportive care like bed rest, fluids, and fever management is recommended. Those with complications may require specific treatments. For more information on measles and the necessary vaccinations, people are directed to call the HHSA Immunization Branch or visit their website at www.sdiz.org.
