The Maryland Department of Health is reaching out to individuals who may have been in contact with residents who have contracted measles.
This week, health officials in Maryland announced three additional cases of measles, with two cases involving residents from Southern Maryland who recently traveled to an area in the U.S. experiencing a measles outbreak. This raises the total number of cases in Maryland to 12 for the year, following the confirmation of five cases just a week ago.
On Wednesday, the Maryland Department of Health indicated they are working to inform those who could have been exposed to the two travelers who tested positive. Officials noted that anyone who visited certain locations during specified times might have come into contact with the virus:
- J&R Feeds LLC in Mechanicsville from Thursday, July 16, to Tuesday, July 21.
- MedStar Health Urgent Care in Charlotte Hall on Monday, July 20, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.
- MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital emergency room in Leonardtown on Tuesday, July 21, from 11 a.m. to 6:45 p.m.
The third case was confirmed on Thursday and may have exposed individuals who were in the Carroll Hospital emergency department waiting room in Westminster on July 21 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Those who were present at these locations, especially unvaccinated people, should watch for symptoms over the next 21 days. Early signs include a fever over 101 degrees, a cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. A distinct red rash typically emerges a few days later, starting on the face and spreading across the body.
If symptoms develop, people should refrain from going to work, school, childcare, or public places, and should reach out to a healthcare provider before visiting a clinic or emergency room.
Measles is highly contagious and can spread through the air after an infected person coughs, sneezes, or breathes; the virus can linger airborne for up to two hours. Generally, individuals who have had two doses of a measles vaccine or were born before 1957 are considered protected. Those uncertain about their vaccination status are encouraged to contact a healthcare provider or local health department.
