San Diego City Wire

A 47-year-old resident in San Diego County has been confirmed as the second case of measles in the area for the year 2024, as announced by the County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency on Sunday. The individual had recently traveled overseas, leading to concerns about potential exposure to others in the community. County officials have confirmed that this case is unrelated to the previous case in February, which involved an unvaccinated infant who had also traveled abroad.

According to Ankita Kadakia, M.D., County deputy public health officer, "Measles is a very contagious disease that can be spread easily by coughing, sneezing, or being in the same room with an infected person." The adult with measles is currently hospitalized and may have exposed individuals at various locations in Encinitas and Carlsbad. The County's Public Health Services is actively working with healthcare facilities and establishments visited by the infected individual to identify and follow up with potentially exposed individuals.

The confirmed locations where exposure may have occurred include Naked Café, Ralph’s Market, Leo Mullen Sports Park, Trader Joe’s, Kingdom Hall Jehovah’s Witness, Tinleaf Fresh Kitchen, Scripps Coastal Medical Center Encinitas, and Scripps Encinitas Hospital Emergency Department on specific dates in March 2024.

Individuals who were present at these locations on the specified dates are advised to watch for symptoms of measles, which typically appear seven to 21 days after exposure. Early symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes, followed by a distinctive red rash. It is crucial for those showing symptoms to contact their healthcare provider in advance to activate infection control measures and prevent further exposure.

Dr. Kadakia emphasized the importance of measles vaccination, stating, "The best way to prevent measles is by getting the measles vaccine." With measles outbreaks occurring globally, it is recommended that all international travelers, especially infants between 6 and 12 months of age, receive the necessary vaccination.

Complications from measles, such as diarrhea, ear infections, and pneumonia, are more common in children and can be severe. Unfortunately, there is no specific treatment for measles, and management typically involves rest, fluids, and fever control. Individuals with complications may require treatment tailored to their specific conditions.

For further information on measles and vaccination, individuals are encouraged to contact the HHSA Immunization Branch at (866) 358-2966 or visit www.sdiz.org. The County of San Diego continues to monitor the situation closely and urges vigilance in preventing the spread of measles within the community.