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Measles diagnosed in Boston resident, many may have been exposed

BOSTON — A case of measles has been diagnosed in a person who lives in Boston, according to the public health commission.

The patient was diagnosed Sunday and the Boston Public Health Commission says he or she traveled to several locations where people may have been exposed.

This is the first time a Bostonian has been diagnosed with measles since 2013.

More information from Boston Public Health Commission:

BPHC urges anyone who does not know their measles immunization status to get vaccinated with at least one dose of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine. Those who have had measles in the past or have received two doses of measles containing vaccine are unlikely to become ill even if exposed.

Exposures to this individual may have occurred at the following locations and times in Boston:

Friday, October 4th 1:30pm to 4:30pm
Render Coffee, 563 Columbus Avenue, South End

Friday, October 4th 2:30pm to 4:45pm
Cafe Madeleine, 517 Columbus Avenue, South End

Friday, October 4th 6:30pm to 9:30pm
Gyroscope, 305 Huntington Avenue, Fenway

Saturday, October 5th 11:30am to 1:35pm
CouCou, 24 Union Park Street, South End

Saturday, October 5th 12:00pm to 2:15pm
Sir Speedy, 827 Boylston Street, Back Bay

People who were at these locations could become ill anytime between October 11 and October 26, 2019 as the incubation period following exposure is seven to 21 days.

Anyone who was exposed and is unclear of their immunization status or begins to develop symptoms of measles should call their healthcare provider.

Measles is a very contagious virus that is spread through the air, usually through coughing and sneezing. The virus may remain in the environment for up to two hours after the infectious person has left the area. Exposure can occur even without direct contact with an infectious person.

Early symptoms include a high fever, runny nose, cough and red eyes. A skin rash usually occurs three to five days later and begins and flat, red spots on the face.

"This is a dangerous disease, but it is preventable. Getting vaccinated is the best way for everyone to protect themselves from measles," said BPHC Medical Director, Dr. Jennifer Lo.

Dr. Lo added that the risk of infection in those who haven't been immunized is about 90%.

"I think it's [a] testament to Mass. as a state. We have an extremely high vaccination rate," she said of the six-year gap between diagnoses in the state. "I think the CDC reported us at 98% vaccinations."

BPHC is working with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) to contact individuals at high risk for exposure. For additional information, please contact BPHC at 617-534-5611 or MDPH at 617-983-6800.

You can read more about Measles on the Boston Public Health Fact Sheet.