Madison: Additional Community Exposure Locations Identified for Measles Case
Wisconsin Eagle/10329575

~ Public Health Madison & Dane County is currently investigating a confirmed case of measles in the area. The investigation has revealed two additional locations where members of the community may have been exposed to the highly contagious virus.

According to Janel Heinrich, Director of Public Health Madison & Dane County, the virus can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left the space. This makes it crucial for anyone who may have been in these locations during the specified dates and times to monitor themselves for symptoms.

The first location identified is Madison Metro, specifically on certain bus routes on Monday, January 26 and Wednesday, January 28. The impacted routes include J Route, H Route, G Route, O Route, and C1 Route. A detailed list of impacted routes can be found on Madison Metro's website.

The second location is UnityPoint Health - Meriter Hospital Emergency Department on Saturday, January 31 from 10:20 am to 12:30 pm. Anyone who was at this location during this time should also be aware of potential exposure.

These new locations are in addition to previously announced locations including Qdoba Restaurant on Sunday, January 25 from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm and various buildings at UW-Madison from Monday, January 26 to Wednesday, January 28.

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Heinrich emphasizes that those who have been vaccinated against measles are at a very low risk of contracting the virus. The measles vaccine is highly effective with a 97% success rate in preventing illness. However, it is still important for individuals who were present at any of these locations during the specified dates and times to monitor themselves for symptoms.

Symptoms of measles typically appear within 7-21 days after exposure and include fever, coughing, runny nose, watery eyes, and a rash that spreads from the head down. If anyone experiences these symptoms they are advised to stay home and contact their doctor's office or clinic before visiting to prevent further exposure.

The best way to prevent measles is through the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine. Most people have received this vaccine as it is required for school entry. The Department of Health Services considers those who have received two doses of the vaccine as children to be protected for life and do not require a booster dose.

For those who are uninsured or have Medical Assistance, Public Health Madison & Dane County offers free vaccines. Anyone with questions about a possible exposure can contact Public Health at health@publichealthmdc.com or (608) 266-4821.

As the investigation continues, more locations may be identified and added to the list on the Public Health Madison & Dane County website. It is important for individuals to stay informed and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of measles in the community.

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