Two residents of Oneida County have been diagnosed with measles. Neither person was vaccinated against the illness. The two cases are related and within the same residence. Oneida County Health Department (OCHD) has identified and notified people who had close contact with the cases and there is no immediate threat to the public.
Measles is highly contagious and a serious disease that can make people very ill, especially young children. Complications include pneumonia, encephalitis, miscarriage, preterm birth, hospitalization, and death. There is currently no treatment for measles.
Symptoms can start within 7 to 14 days and up to 21 days following an infection and include:
- High fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- And a rash develops generally 3-5 days after the symptoms start.
The rash usually starts as flat red spots appearing at the hairline and then spread downward to the neck, trunk, arms, legs and feet. An infected person’s fever may spike to 104ºF. An individual with measles can be contagious 4 days before through 4 days after the rash appears and even before person begins to feel sick.
If you are not vaccinated against measles or are unsure of your vaccination status, contact your healthcare provider or Oneida County Health Department at 315-798-5747.
If you become ill and believe you may have measles, contact your healthcare provider or the emergency room department prior to seeking care to avoid exposing others. Stay home and avoid going to work, school or other public places. If you feel that you have been exposed to measles, contact your healthcare provider or the Oneida County Health Department at 315-798-5747.
