Stanislaus County reports case of measles in child who had traveled outside the country

Stanislaus County health officials are investigating a measles case in an unvaccinated child who had traveled outside the country last month and returned with the infection.

The public health investigation is trying to find out whether other people were exposed to measles when the child was infectious.

“At this time, all known public exposures have occurred in healthcare settings,” said a news release Thursday from the county Health Services Agency. “Exposed persons will receive follow-ups from Public Health and the healthcare facility where exposure occurred.”

Measles is a highly contagious disease and easily spreads through close contact with others who don’t have immunity to the virus, either from vaccination or previous measles infection, the county agency said.

The virus is spread through direct contact with droplets, when an infected person sneezes or coughs. It can also spread by breathing airborne particles that remain after an infected individual leaves the room.

The illness usually starts with a fever, cough, runny nose and watery red eyes. The telltale rash develops within a few days, spreading from the face to the rest of the body.

“Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that can quickly spread among people who are not immune to it,” said Dr. Thea Papasozomenos, the county’s public health officer. “Unfortunately, it can cause serious health complications in some people. The best way to protect yourself and your family against measles is by getting vaccinated.”

When cases of measles are investigated, those exposed to infection need to show proof of immunity or vaccination as part of the quarantine protocols, county staff said.

Severe complications of measles may include pneumonia, encephalitis or swelling of the brain. Severe cases can be fatal. A large number of people are at risk of severe complications from measles, including children younger than 5 years old, pregnant women, adults older than 20, and people with compromised immune systems.

People who develop symptoms need to call their healthcare provider right away, county health officials said. People should make sure to call a medical facility ahead of time before going in for examination. Tell the person who assists with the appointment about your possible exposure to measles, so the facility can implement measures to protect staff and other patients.

Cases of measles in California may result from travel outside the country, as the virus is common in many parts of the world. Measles outbreaks have been sparked in the United States by unvaccinated children and international travelers who were not vaccinated.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises international travelers to have protection against measles, regardless of their destination.