Oswego County Reports Nine New Measles Cases; Officials Say Public Risk Remains Low

OSWEGO COUNTY – Oswego County health officials reported nine new measles cases Oct. 16, all connected to the original case, and said the risk to the public remains low.

Dr. Christina Liepke, the county’s medical director, urged residents to recognize how easily the virus spreads and to stay current on vaccinations.

“First, I would like to stress that the public risk for measles remains low at this time,” Liepke said in a county news release. “Second, I strongly urge people to recognize just how infectious the measles virus is. Even with the best hygiene practices, it can easily be spread by coughing and sneezing. This shows us just how important it is to get immunized to stop its spread.”

Deputy Public Health Director Jodi Martin also said the public risk remains low because the cases are connected.

“Vaccination is the best way for people to protect themselves, their children and their entire community,” Martin said.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends two routine doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine for children: the first at 12 to 15 months and the second at 4 to 6 years. Two doses are 97% effective at preventing measles, according to the CDC.

“Although we promote vaccinations during childhood, it’s important to remember that measles is not just a childhood illness,” Martin said. “Everyone, regardless of age, should know their vaccination status and make sure they are up to date on their immunizations.”

Weekly vaccination appointments

The Oswego County Health Department offers immunization clinics every Tuesday at the Nick Sterio Public Health Clinic, 70 Bunner St., Oswego. Adults and children can receive vaccinations by appointment from 9 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 3 p.m.

Most insurance plans are accepted, and no one will be turned away, the department said. To schedule an appointment, call the Preventive Division at 315-349-3547.

Symptoms and exposure

Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease that spreads through coughing and sneezing. Initial symptoms include high fever, cough, red eyes and a runny nose. A rash develops on the face one to four days later and spreads to the rest of the body, hands and feet, according to the department.

Liepke urged anyone experiencing symptoms who knows they were exposed to call their health care provider before visiting the office, to avoid exposing other patients and medical staff.

A person with measles is considered contagious from four days before the rash appears through four days afterward. Symptoms typically develop seven to 14 days after exposure but can take up to 21 days to appear, the department said.

People who are not protected against measles can face serious complications, particularly children younger than 5, adults older than 20, people with weakened immune systems and pregnant women. The department said measles during pregnancy can increase the risk of early labor, miscarriage and low-birth-weight infants.

Health department staff continue to monitor the situation and provide guidance. Residents can report a potential exposure or ask about measles and vaccination by calling their primary care provider or the Preventive Division at 315-349-3547.

The New York State Department of Health measles dashboard is updated Tuesday afternoons with cases reported through the preceding Saturday, according to the county release.