Measles Exposure at Popular Downtown Locations

GREENVILLE, S.C. — The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) has announced that three public venues were potentially exposed to measles due to an infected individual. The identified locations are:

• Nose Dive restaurant, 116 S. Main Street, Greenville, S.C. on Dec. 24 from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.
• Best Buy, 1125 Woodruff Road, Suite 1201, Greenville, S.C. on Dec. 24 from 3 to 6 p.m.
• Spartanburg County Public Library, 151 S. Church Street, Spartanburg, S.C. during the Solar Superstorms planetarium show on Dec. 27 from 3:15 to 6:30 p.m.

DPH indicated that the person was unaware of their infectious status at the time. They have not noted any risks for measles exposure at these venues outside of the specified times.

“Individuals who were at any of these places and are not immune might start showing early measles symptoms soon,” explained a DPH official. They’re urging anyone present during those times to consult with their healthcare provider if they suspect exposure or lack immunity.

“Those who might have been exposed, particularly if they haven’t been vaccinated or had measles before, should keep an eye out for symptoms until January 17. Measles symptoms generally emerge 7-12 days post-exposure, although they can take up to 21 days. Initial signs include a cough, runny nose, and red eyes, alongside a mild to moderate fever,” the official added.

A few days later, the fever typically increases, sometimes reaching 104°F, accompanied by a red, blotchy rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. Measles is contagious four days prior to the appearance of the rash and lasting four days afterward, meaning individuals could spread the virus without even realizing they’re infected. It’s crucial to stay home if you’re feeling unwell.

If someone experiences fever (101°F or higher), cough, runny nose, or red eyes—with or without a rash—after potential exposure, it’s important to notify a healthcare provider immediately. They can provide instructions and make special arrangements for evaluating the patient without risk to others in the office.

The most reliable safeguard against measles is the MMR vaccine. Anyone who hasn’t received it or has uncertain immunity is advised to get vaccinated unless there’s a contraindication. The MMR vaccine is both effective and safe. For more details, the DPH provides recommendations for vaccination, which can assist individuals in determining whether they need a dose. The vaccine can be found at pharmacies or healthcare providers listed on the DPH online vaccine locator or at DPH Health Departments.