HUNTSVILLE, Ala.

Health officials in Alabama are sounding the alarm after a measles case was identified in Huntsville, linked to an international traveler who frequented businesses in the Bailey Cove area while infectious.

The Alabama Department of Public Health has reported that a private lab confirmed the positive test result, urging anyone who might have been exposed to verify their vaccination status and keep an eye out for symptoms.

Possible exposure locations in Huntsville

The infected individual visited the following places:

Subway located at 7900 Bailey Cove Road in Huntsville, on October 4, 5, and 7, between 11:30 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Publix at 12796 Bailey Cove Road Southeast, on October 4, from 1 to 3 p.m.

The ADPH is advising those who were at these establishments during those hours to check their vaccine status and monitor for any signs of measles.

Wes Stubblefield from the ADPH remarked that measles is a highly contagious virus. He suggested that individuals who may have been near the infected person during that time should be vigilant about any symptoms. “If anyone notices symptoms that could indicate measles, they should inform their local physician or clinic before arriving and mention their concerns,” Stubblefield added.

What to know about measles symptoms

Measles is a serious and highly contagious viral respiratory illness that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

If someone unvaccinated is exposed, there’s a 90% chance they’ll become infected. Symptoms typically manifest between 7 to 14 days following exposure, and individuals can be contagious for several days before showing any signs.

Common symptoms include:

• High fever, potentially exceeding 104 degrees
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes
• Rash

How to protect yourself with MMR vaccine

Health officials emphasize that the primary method of protection is through the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine.

This year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has noted over 4,000 confirmed measles cases in the U.S., many stemming from international travel.

CDC recommendations include:

For children:

• Two doses of the MMR vaccine
• The first dose should be administered at 12 to 15 months
• The second dose should be given between 4 to 6 years, prior to school entry

For adults:

• One or two doses of the MMR vaccine, based on individual risk factors

Those planning international travel are encouraged to be fully vaccinated beforehand. For infants aged 6 to 11 months, one dose is suggested before travel, followed by two additional doses post their first birthday.

Measles can lead to severe complications, particularly in children under five, such as ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, swelling of the brain, and in some cases, death. Parents should ensure their children are current on routine immunizations. Adults uncertain about their vaccination status should reach out to their healthcare provider.