Measles exposure confirmed at Portland Safeway, health officials issue warning
PORTLAND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- A measles exposure has been confirmed at a Safeway in Portland, prompting health officials to warn the public of potential risks. The Oregon Health Authority and Multnomah County public health officials identified the grocery store at 2800 SE Hawthorne Blvd. as the site of the exposure.
The potential exposure occurred during specific time windows between March 26th and March 29th. The exposure windows occurred over four consecutive days. Potential exposures are linked to Thursday, March 26th, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday, March 27th, from 2 p.m. to midnight, Saturday, March 28th, from 2:20 p.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, March 29th, from 2 p.m. to midnight.
Health officials are urging anyone who visited the location during those times to contact their health care provider to determine their immunity based on vaccination records, age, or prior infection history.
For individuals who do not have a primary care provider, Multnomah County offers services at seven primary care clinics and nine student health centers. While the health centers are located at high schools, they are available to anyone between the ages of 5 and 18. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 503-988-5558.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Viral particles can remain suspended in the air for up to 2 hours after an infectious individual has left the area. Those infected are contagious for four days before a rash appears and for four days after the rash develops.
Symptoms of the virus generally begin 7-21 days after exposure. Early signs include a fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes. A rash typically follows, starting on the face before spreading to the rest of the body. Common complications include ear infections, lung infections, and diarrhea, though swelling of the brain can occur in rare cases.
Health officials identified several high-risk groups, including children under age 5, adults more than 20, pregnant people, and those with weakened immune systems. In developed countries, the fatality rate for measles is between one and three deaths for every 1,000 cases.
Vaccination provides the highest level of protection against the virus. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97% effective at preventing infection. Public health officials noted that the risk of severe disease is very low for those who are up to date on their vaccinations.
To prevent further community spread, individuals experiencing symptoms are asked to contact their medical provider or an urgent care center by telephone before arriving. This allows clinics to establish an entry plan that prevents exposing other patients in waiting rooms.
