Despite the fact that California is currently experiencing a measles outbreak of large proportions Lassen County Public Health Emergency Preparedness Coordinator Christi Myers is assuring local residents that our county is still measles free.
“Measles is a highly contagious disease but is also highly preventable through vaccinations,” explains Myers. “To date there have been no confirmed cases of measles in Lassen County.”
Myers said that the Public Health Department is working closely with medical providers to ensure prompt reporting and investigation of patients who have measles-like symptoms.
The outbreak started in December 2014 when at least 40 people who visited or worked at Disneyland theme park in Orange County contracted measles which then rapidly spread to at least half-dozen other states. Since December 2014, there have been 123 confirmed cases in California. There are currently no confirmed cases in our northern region.
Think you might have Measles? Take precautions!
If you believe you have been exposed to measles and are experiencing symptoms consistent with the disease, it is important that you call your healthcare provider before going into a provider office or the emergency room. Follow the healthcare provider’s directions on how to proceed for an examination to prevent any possible exposure to others.
Measles symptoms include:
- Fever
- Rash – typically appears first on the face and spreads downward
- Inflamed eyes (conjunctivitis) and sensitivity to light
- Dry cough, runny nose
- Tiny red spots with bluish-white centers inside mouth on the lining of the cheek
The California Department of Public Health recommends that anyone not already immunized get vaccinated at this time. Two doses of MMR vaccine are more than 99 percent effective in preventing measles. If you are unsure of your vaccination status, check with your provider and get vaccinated as soon as possible.
For additional information go to www.lassencountyhealth.org
