Santa Clara County Public Health warns residents of possible measles exposure in multiple counties

SAN JOSE ( KRON ) — Santa Cruz County Public Health and Santa Clara County Public Health are warning residents of measles exposure in the counties.

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness, said Santa Clara County health officials. Measles usually begins with a mild to moderate fever accompanied by cough, runny nose, and red/watery eyes. People infected by measles have reportedly also suffered from diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. A more common symptom is a red, blotchy rash on the body or face. According to the agency, the rash fades after about a week.

According to the department, an individual with confirmed measles dined at Taqueria Los Pericos, which is located at 139 Water St. in Santa Cruz and Starbucks at 624 Blossom Hill Road in Los Gatos on July 1. Another area of measles exposure is the San Jose Mineta International Airport, Terminal B on July 2.

The agency said unvaccinated people or individuals unaware of their vaccination status who were in these areas are at risk of developing measles from 7 to 21 days after being exposed.

For the individuals who may have been exposed to measles, Santa Cruz County Public Health asks residents to take these actions:

• Review their immunization and medical records to determine if they are protected against measles.
• Contact their healthcare provider by phone or email as soon as possible about potential exposure if they are pregnant, have an infant, or have a weakened immune system regardless of vaccination history. The agency asks residents to not go to their provider in-person or the emergency department for potential exposure.
• Monitor themselves for illnesses, such as fever and/or an unexplained rash from 7 days to 21 days after their exposure.

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