The Nassau County Department of Health has issued a warning after a confirmed case of measles at Cohen Children’s Medical Center. Health officials have stated that anyone in the Emergency Department waiting room and treatment area on March 20-21 may have been exposed to the highly contagious virus.
This marks the first confirmed case of measles in Nassau County since 2019 and the third case in New York State this year. The patient is a child under 5 years old who was hospitalized at the medical center and is currently in stable condition.
Measles is a serious and potentially deadly disease that can be prevented through vaccination with the MMR vaccine. Symptoms of measles include fever, rash, cough, conjunctivitis, and runny nose. Individuals who may have been exposed are advised to contact a healthcare provider before seeking care.
Experts warn that measles can be spread through contaminated air or surfaces, with the virus able to survive for up to two hours in the air. Two other cases of measles have been reported in New York City, highlighting the importance of vaccination and taking precautions to prevent the spread of the disease.
The public is urged to stay informed and take necessary steps to protect themselves and others from measles. Stay updated on any further developments regarding the measles outbreak in Nassau County and throughout New York State.