Maryland health officials reported two new cases of measles on Wednesday, bringing the total number of infections in the state this year to 11. The latest cases involve individuals from southern Maryland who contracted the disease during travel to an area experiencing a measles outbreak.
While the specific travel destination has not been disclosed, health officials are urging caution for those who visited certain local facilities during specific dates. Individuals who were at J&R Feeds LLC in Mechanicsville from July 16-21, MedStar Health Urgent Care in Charlotte Hall on Monday between 8:30 a.m. and 1:15 p.m., or MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital Emergency Room on Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. may have been exposed to the virus.
In response to the rising cases, the St. Mary’s County government has established a call center for residents seeking information and will provide measles vaccinations on Thursday and Friday, July 23-24.
Health officials advise individuals who have not received the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccination and suspect exposure to monitor for symptoms. Early signs include cough, high fever, red eyes, and a runny nose, followed by a characteristic red rash that typically appears one to four days after initial symptoms.
Measles is highly contagious and can remain airborne for up to two hours after an infected person has left the area, making it crucial for those who may have been exposed to take precautions.
This increase in measles cases in Maryland reflects a broader trend of rising infections across the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there have been 2,260 reported cases nationwide this year, nearing last year’s record of 2,289.
Reported by HarborBeat based on The Baltimore Banner (source).
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