Measles Exposure in Oregon: Locations Announced
The Oregon Health Authority made an announcement on Monday regarding three potential places where individuals may have been exposed to measles. People are encouraged to consult their healthcare providers if they believe they might have come into contact with the virus.
Public health officials from the Oregon Health Authority, along with Multnomah and Clackamas counties, identified specific locations along with the corresponding dates and times:
- Providence Immediate Care—Happy Valley: 16180 SE Sunnyside Road, Suite 102, Happy Valley, from 7:42 a.m. to 10:22 a.m. on Thursday, July 9.
- Providence Willamette Falls Medical Center: Emergency department, 1500 Division St., Oregon City, from 12:18 a.m. to 5:56 a.m. on Friday, July 10.
- Providence Willamette Falls Medical Center: Emergency department, 1500 Division St., Oregon City, from 10:04 a.m. to 2:57 p.m. on Saturday, July 11.
- Providence Portland Medical Center: Emergency department, 4805 NE Glisan St., Portland, from 1:39 p.m. to 4:57 p.m. on Saturday, July 11.
- Providence Portland Medical Center: Emergency department, 4805 NE Glisan St., Portland, from 7:32 p.m. to 9:46 p.m. on Sunday, July 12.
If you were at any of these locations during the specified times, it’s vital to reach out to your healthcare provider. They will assess your risk for measles based on your vaccination history, age, or prior infection.
Families in need of a primary care provider can set up an appointment at any of Multnomah County’s primary care clinics or student health centers by calling 503-988-5558. Clackamas County residents can also schedule an appointment through the Clackamas County Health Center.
Understanding Measles
Measles is transmitted through the air after an infected person coughs or sneezes. Contagiousness starts four days before a rash appears and lasts for four days afterward. The virus can remain airborne for up to two hours after the infected individual has left the area.
Initial symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes, usually followed by a rash that begins at the face and spreads across the body. Symptoms typically show up 7 to 21 days after exposure. Common complications include ear infections, lung infections, and diarrhea. Although rare, brain swelling is a serious complication of measles.
Measles poses significant risks, particularly for children under five, adults over 20, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. In recent years, one to three out of every 1,000 measles cases in developed countries have resulted in death. Fortunately, the measles vaccine is highly effective; two doses of the MMR vaccine provide a 97% effectiveness rate in preventing the virus. For those up to date on vaccines, the risk of severe disease is quite low.
If You Suspect Measles
Officials advise anyone showing symptoms of measles—like a rash, or exposure to someone infected—against arriving unannounced at a medical facility. Instead:
- If you have a measles-like rash, or
- If you were exposed to measles within the last 21 days and have any additional symptoms (fever, cough, or red eyes).
It’s suggested to call your healthcare provider or urgent care center ahead of time to prepare a safe plan for seeking treatment.
For more information about measles, reference the Oregon Health Authority’s website.
