Spokane Regional Health District (SRHD) has confirmed a measles infection in an individual who visited various public locations in Deer Park, raising concerns about potential virus exposure among community members.
A confirmed case of measles in a Spokane County resident has prompted Spokane Regional Health District (SRHD) officials to issue an advisory for individuals who may have been exposed to the virus. The exposure took place out of the country, raising concerns about potential transmission in the community.
Before receiving the measles diagnosis, the individual was in the following public locations.
- Sunday, Feb. 11th, 9:30pm – Monday, Feb. 12th, 12:30 am, Spokane International Airport, Concourse B
- Monday, Feb. 12th, 10 am – 4pm, Deer Park Library, 208 S. Forest Ave., Deer Park
- Monday, Feb. 12th, 4-8:30pm, Rozy’z Hot Shotz, 617 S. Fir Ave., Deer Park
- Monday, Feb. 12th, evening hours (still being determined), Taco Bell, 807 S. Main Ave., Deer Park
- Tuesday, Feb. 13th, 5:30-7:30pm, Creekside Kenpo Karate, 3506 Eloika Rd., Deer Park
- Thursday, Feb. 15th, 4:30-7:15pm, Horizon Credit Union, 900 S. Main St., Deer Park
If you were present at these locations during the specified times and lack immunity to measles, the period between February 18th and March 8th, 2024, poses the highest risk of illness. Measles symptoms include: high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, or rash. Individuals experiencing these symptoms or suspect exposure are advised to promptly consult their healthcare provider.
What is Measles
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by a virus, primarily affecting those born after January 1, 1957, who have not been vaccinated. Spread through respiratory droplets, the disease manifests with symptoms such as fever, cough, and a distinctive rash, usually appearing 7-21 days after exposure. Complications, including pneumonia and encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), can arise, particularly in children under five years of age and adults older than twenty. Vaccination with the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella(MMR) vaccine is the most effective preventive measure, recommended for children and certain adults to ensure immunity and halt transmission. If exposure is suspected, individuals should seek medical advice promptly and take precautions to prevent further spread.
More information about measles: SRHD.org/health-topics/diseases-conditions/measles.
SRHD Advice for Community
SRHD epidemiologists anticipate additional cases as they conduct contact tracing and case investigations. All individuals known to have had contact with the infected person have been notified, screened for immunity, and provided with isolation guidance if needed.
Dr. Francisco Velazquez, SRHD health officer, emphasizes the importance of vaccination in preventing measles transmission. Adults who are unsure about their vaccination status are encouraged to receive the measles vaccine, as there is no harm in receiving it a second time. Pregnant women should wait until after giving birth to get vaccinated.
Sources:
- Spokane Regional Health District, and Kelli Hawkins. “Measles Case Identified in Spokane County.” Spokane Regional Health District, 21 Feb 2024, SRHD.org/news/2024/measles-case-identified-in-spokane-county. Accessed 21 February 2024.
- Spokane Regional Health District. “Measles (Rubeola).” Spokane Regional Health District, SRHD.org/health-topics/diseases-conditions/measles. Accessed 21 February 2024.
