Possible Measles Exposure in Berkeley

Announcement information submitted by City of Berkeley:

An adult with measles visited La Mediterranee restaurant in Berkeley on the evening of Friday, Feb. 20, meaning that patrons during that time should monitor themselves for symptoms until March 13.

The person, a San Mateo County resident, was at the restaurant on 2936 College Avenue from approximately 6:45 p.m. to 8 p.m. that Friday. The measles virus can linger in the air for up to two hours, so those at the restaurant until 10 p.m. could have been exposed. The risk is very slight for those who have received the recommended two doses of the vaccine.

The person was infectious but did not know it because the person had not yet developed the tell-tale rash - a circumstance that contributes to the rapid spread of the highly infectious, airborne virus. Symptoms can develop between 7 and 21 days after exposure to the virus.

If those exposed develop fever and a facial rash, they should contact their health care provider for advice and assistance. Those at highest risk are those who are unvaccinated, infants, pregnant women, and those with impaired immunity.

“I encourage Berkeley community members to make sure they and their children have received the required two doses,” said Dr. Janet Berreman, Berkeley’s Health Officer. “Obtaining records of your vaccination could prove critical in the event of a local outbreak.”

Measles is highly preventable. The recommended two doses of MMR vaccine protects 99% of people even if they are exposed to the virus. Even a single dose protects 95% of those vaccinated.

Berkeley Public Health is working with the restaurant to notify and assess exposed individuals who work at the restaurant. Berkeley Public Health is also working closely with the San Mateo County Health System, which is working to trace all contacts involving the infected individual.

Members of the community who have further questions can contact Berkeley PUblic Health at 981-5300 or publichealth@cityofberkeley.

Photo courtesy Shutterstock

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