Measles Exposure Alert For Two Mother Lode Counties

San Andreas, CA — Calaveras County public health officials are actively investigating details surrounding a confirmed case of measles involving an infected child who traveled through both Calaveras and Amador counties.

The fear is that the child may have exposed residents to the disease. County Health Officer Dr. Dean Kelaita reports testing has been done to ensure no local residents were infected. He maintains, “The people exposed to the child with measles have tested negative for the disease. At this time no Calaveras county residents have contracted measles. It is very concerning to receive a report of a child with measles traveling through our community because we have seen a decrease in the numbers of children protected with vaccinations in Calaveras.”

The child became sick with measles after returning from a trip oversea and heading home to Nevada County. The child has made a full recovery. “Measles is a completely preventable disease,” said Dr. Kelaita, who recommends, “Parents should check their children’s shot records and ensure they are fully protected against measles.”

Measles is a highly contagious disease that spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Kelaita notes initial symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes. Then a red rash that usually begins on the face moves to the rest of the body. The person is contagious from four days before and after the rash begins. For more measles information, contact Calaveras County Public Health Services at 209-754-6460.