Maricopa County Department of Public Health confirmed one new public exposure site for measles on Sept. 17 as the result of a travel-associated measles case in a county resident.
The exposure occurred at Walgreens, 11250 E. Via Linda, Scottsdale, on Tuesday, Sept. 8, between 8:00 a.m. and 10:25 a.m. People who were at the location during that time should check their vaccination status. Symptoms typically appear 7 to 12 days after exposure but may take up to 21 days to develop.
This exposure comes as seasonal, vaccine-preventable diseases are on the rise. Maricopa County has confirmed 28 measles cases this year, with more than 3,000 cases reported nationally.
"Measles is making headlines, but we have several illnesses spreading right now, and we have vaccines to protect against many of them, including measles," said Dr. Nick Staab, chief medical officer for Maricopa County Department of Public Health.
According to the department, measles vaccines are available year-round for those who are not up-to-date. An early dose is currently recommended for infants ages 6-11 months. Symptoms of measles include high fever over 101°F, red watery eyes, cough, runny nose, and a rash that is red, raised and blotchy.
In some situations, certain people exposed to measles may be eligible for post-exposure prophylaxis to reduce their risk of becoming ill. This includes some children under 12 months, pregnant women and individuals with compromised immune systems.