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The county's Department of Health made the announcement on Monday, Oct. 1.
"The patient has been isolated to avoid spreading the disease further," the department said in a statement.
Measles is a serious, highly contagious disease that can be spread through the air by coughing or sneezing. In rare cases it can be deadly.
“Keep in mind that this is currently one case of measles,” reassures County Executive MaryEllen Odell. “Please support the efforts of the health department as they work to reduce the risk of measles exposure and transmission. We continue to urge all residents to check their vaccination status to protect themselves.”
“Before this person was isolated, there may have been additional exposures," Health Commissioner Michael J. Nesheiwat, MD, said. "We are working with local partners to identify all possible contacts. If you are unsure if you or your children are protected from measles, reach out to your physician or one of our communicable disease nurses.” PCDOH nurses are available by calling 845-808-1390.
Several possible exposure sites have been identified:
- the Route 52 Laundromat, the Nativity of the Holy Mother of God church, and following the service, at the Annual Feast Day Celebration, and also at the Putnam Hospital Center Emergency Department.
- Anyone in the laundromat at 184 Route 52 in Carmel on Saturday, Sept. 21, between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. who develops symptoms before Saturday, Oct. 12, should call the PCDOH as soon as possible to understand their possible risk and what action to take.
- Anyone who attended church service at the Nativity of the Holy Mother of God at 1050 Route 6 in Mahopac on Sunday, Sept. 22, between the hours of 9 a.m. and 2 p.m., or the celebration afterwards from 12 noon to 6 p.m. and develops symptoms before Sunday, October 13, should also call the health department as soon as possible.
- Anyone in the Putnam Hospital Center Emergency Department at 670 Stoneleigh Ave in Carmel on Saturday, Sept. 28, between the hours of 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. who has not been contacted by the PDCOH, should also call the health department as soon as possible.
Individuals born before 1957, anyone who has had measles disease, or those who have proof of receiving 2 MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) vaccines, are less likely to become sick.
“Measles symptoms begin with fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes, and sore throat,” Nesheiwat said. “It is followed by a rash that spreads over the body. If anyone has these symptoms, call your doctor or the emergency room first. Do not go directly to a medical facility. Isolation procedures need to begin immediately upon arrival.”
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