According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), a person who recently traveled internationally has been confirmed to have measles. The individual, who has not been identified, visited several locations in the state, including a hospital and a few restaurants, between December 27th and January 3rd.
Locations of Potential Exposure
The NCDHHS has released a list of potential exposure sites, including a hospital in Johnston County, a restaurant in Wake County, and a few other locations in the surrounding areas. The agency is urging anyone who visited these sites during the specified time period to seek medical attention immediately.
The list of potential exposure sites includes:
- Johnston Health in Smithfield, NC
- The Cheesecake Factory in Raleigh, NC
- La Taqueria in Raleigh, NC
- Pizza Hut in Cary, NC
Measles Symptoms and Prevention
Measles is a highly contagious virus that can cause severe symptoms, including fever, cough, runny nose, and a characteristic rash. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the measles virus can spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
The CDC recommends that anyone who has not been vaccinated against measles or has not received a booster shot in the past 10 years should receive a dose of the MMR vaccine as soon as possible. In addition, anyone who has come into contact with the infected individual should seek medical attention immediately.
Public Health Response
The NCDHHS is working closely with local health departments and healthcare providers to identify and contact anyone who may have come into contact with the infected individual. The agency is also conducting an investigation to determine how the individual contracted the virus and to prevent further spread.
The CDC has also issued a warning to healthcare providers in North Carolina to be on the lookout for measles symptoms and to report any suspected cases to the local health department immediately.
In conclusion, the confirmation of measles in North Carolina serves as a reminder of the importance of vaccination and public health preparedness. Residents are urged to take precautions to prevent the spread of the virus and to seek medical attention immediately if they experience any symptoms.