2 weeks Ago By Elizabeth Ireland • Times of San Diego
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By clicking sign up, you agree to our terms . With Spring Break around the corner and measles cases rising across the U.S.
, San Diego County public health officials Monday urged residents to get vaccinated. Large outbreaks have been reported in Texas and New Mexico, contributing to more than 400 confirmed cases across 19 states, with two deaths. While San Diego County has not reported any cases this year, officials warn that travel increases the risk of exposure.
“If you have traveled internationally or nationally near an outbreak area and are experiencing the symptoms of measles, call your healthcare provider immediately,” said Dr. Seema Shah, medical director of the county Epidemiology and Immunization Services. “Measles isn’t just a fever and rash.
It can be a very dangerous illness, especially for young children and babies.” Measles is a highly contagious respiratory virus that spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes. The virus can linger in the air and on surfaces for hours.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , about 1 in 1,000 measles cases in children results in death. Times of San Diego is devoted to producing timely, comprehensive news about San Diego County. Your donation helps keep our work free-to-read, funds reporters who cover local issues and allows us to write stories that hold public officials accountable.
Join the growing list of donors investing in our community's long-term future. Infants under one year old, who have not yet received their measles vaccine, face the highest risk. Other vulnerable groups include unvaccinated children over 12 months and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes and fatigue. A red rash typically appears a few days after symptoms begin, starting on the head and spreading downward. There is no specific treatment or cure for measles.
“The best way to prevent measles and protect your child from getting sick is with a vaccine,” Shah said. “Getting the measles vaccine is safer than getting the measles.” Some adults vaccinated between 1963 and 1967 may need a booster shot, officials said.
For more information about measles, vaccines and other preventable diseases, go to the county’s Immunization Branch online at www.sandiegocounty.gov or call 866-358-2966.
City News Service contributed to this article. Get Our Free Daily Email Newsletter Get the latest local and California news from Times of San Diego delivered to your inbox at 8 a.m.
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