MINEOLA, NEW YORK – The Nassau County Department of Health has issued an alert to the public regarding potential exposure to measles at the Cohen Children’s Medical Center in Queens-Nassau border. Anyone who visited the Emergency Department waiting room and treatment area at the medical center between March 20 and March 21 might have been exposed, according to the health department.
State health officials confirmed the first measles case in Nassau County since 2019, with the patient being a child under 5 years old. The child, who resides in an undisclosed Nassau community, was hospitalized and is currently in stable condition. The highly infectious viral respiratory illness poses a risk to the unvaccinated population, emphasizing the importance of measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccination.
The Cohen Children’s Medical Center is collaborating with state and local health authorities to identify individuals who may have come into contact with the infected patient. Measures have been taken to isolate and treat high-risk patients promptly. The MMR vaccine is recommended for children between 12 and 15 months old, with a second dose administered between ages 4 and 6.
Measles, characterized by symptoms such as fever, rash, cough, conjunctivitis, and runny nose, can be transmitted through respiratory droplets and contamination of surfaces. The virus can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left a space. Those born before 1957, who have received the MMR vaccine, or have had previous exposure to measles are considered immune to the disease.
Individuals who suspect exposure to measles and exhibit symptoms are advised to seek medical attention promptly to prevent further transmission. The health department urges caution and vigilance among the public, particularly in crowded spaces where contagion can easily occur. In addition to the case in Nassau County, two other measles cases have been reported in New York City.
Preventative measures, early detection, and timely intervention are crucial in containing the spread of measles and protecting vulnerable populations from potential health risks. The cooperation of health care providers, public health agencies, and community members is essential in safeguarding public health and minimizing the impact of infectious diseases like measles.