Seneca County health officials are warning that people who visited Lifecare Medical Associates on Monday afternoon may have been exposed to measles.
The Seneca County Health Department said a person who later tested positive for measles was at the medical practice from 1:15 to 4:30 p.m. Sept. 14. Anyone who was there during that period should monitor for symptoms through Oct. 5.
The department and Lifecare Medical Associates are reviewing appointment records to identify patients who may be at risk based on their vaccination or immunity status. Patients without documented evidence of vaccination or immunity are being contacted directly, officials said.
Visitors and people who accompanied patients may not appear in scheduling records, so the public notice is intended to reach anyone else who was in the office during the exposure window.
What exposed people should do
People who become ill should call a health care provider or emergency department before arriving for care so staff can take steps to avoid exposing others. They should also stay away from work, school and other public places.
Seneca County residents with possible exposure should notify the county Health Department at 315-539-1920. People who live outside the county should contact the health department where they live.
Measles symptoms commonly begin with fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes, followed by a rash, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Symptoms generally appear seven to 14 days after contact with the virus.
Vaccination offers strong protection
Measles spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can remain infectious in an airspace for up to two hours after the person leaves, according to the CDC.
Two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children receive the first dose at 12 to 15 months and the second at ages 4 to 6.
Measles can cause serious complications, including pneumonia and encephalitis, or swelling of the brain. Young children and people with weakened immune systems face a higher risk of severe illness.
More information is available from the Seneca County Health Department at SenecaCountyHealthNY.gov.
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