Possible measles exposure reported at Lebanon County Target, DOH says

LEBANON, Pennsylvania. —

The Pennsylvania Department of Health is warning of potential exposure to measles in a Lebanon County target, according to a statement released Thursday.

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Officials said a person who tested positive may have exposed others at the Target on Quentin Road in Lebanon on Oct. 23 between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m.

The DOH urges anyone who visited this store during this time to check their vaccination status and monitor for symptoms. The department said unvaccinated people are at the greatest risk of infection.

According to the DOH, the person who tested positive was instructed to self-isolate at home while they were contagious. The ministry said it could not provide any details about the individual due to privacy concerns.

Symptoms may take weeks to appear

Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes. The virus can remain in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours after the person leaves, according to the DOH.

Symptoms usually appear seven to 21 days after exposure and include fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. The department said a rash usually follows, starting on the head or face and spreading downward.

What to do if you may have been exposed

Anyone who may have been exposed and is not vaccinated should contact their health care provider or call the department at 877-PA-HEALTH (877-724-3258).

People who think they may have been exposed and develop symptoms are advised to contact a provider or the hotline.

Health officials have emphasized that vaccination offers the best protection against measles. According to the ministry, two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine, known as MMR, are about 97% effective in preventing the disease.

Below: Measles cases in Pennsylvania