HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WAFF) – Alabama health officials are warning the public after a case of measles was reported in Huntsville involving an international traveler who visited businesses in the Bailey Cove area while contagious.
The Alabama Department of Public Health said a private laboratory reported the positive test and is now urging anyone who may have been exposed to check their vaccination status and monitor themselves for symptoms.
Possible exhibition locations in Huntsville
Health officials say the person visited these locations:
Metro, 7900 Bailey Cove Road in Huntsville, October 4, 5 and 7 between 11:30 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Publix at 12796 Bailey Cove Road Southeast, October 4 between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.
ADPH advises anyone at a restaurant or store during these times to check their vaccination status and watch for measles symptoms.
What to know about measles symptoms
Measles is a serious and highly contagious viral respiratory illness that is spread by droplets in the air when a person with measles coughs or sneezes.
If exposed, unvaccinated people have a 90% chance of becoming infected. Symptoms usually appear 7 to 14 days after infection, and infected people can spread it to others for several days before showing symptoms.
Common symptoms include:
- High fever, reaching over 104 degrees
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- Rash
How to protect yourself with the MMR vaccine
Health officials say the best way to protect yourself is to get vaccinated against measles, mumps and rubella, or MMR.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported more than 4,000 confirmed cases of measles in the United States this year. Many cases come from international travel.
CDC Recommendations:
Children:
- Two doses of MMR vaccine
- First dose between 12 and 15 months
- Second dose between 4 and 6 years before starting school
Adults:
- 1 or 2 doses of MMR vaccine, depending on risk factors
Anyone traveling internationally must be fully vaccinated before traveling. Infants aged 6 to 11 months should receive one dose before travel, then two additional doses after their first birthday.
Measles can cause serious complications, especially in children under 5 years old, including ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, brain swelling and even death. Parents should make sure their children are up to date with their routine immunizations. Adults who are unsure of their status should contact their health care provider.
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