​13-Month-Old Diagnosed With Measles​ In San Diego County

SAN DIEGO, CA — A 13-month-old child was diagnosed with measles in San Diego County, marking the third confirmed case of measles in the region this year.

All three cases, which occurred in people who traveled overseas, are the first measles cases in the county since 2019, according to county public health officials. None of the cases are linked.

The first case involved a 1-year-old and the second case involved a 47-year-old resident.

The 13-month-old, who was unvaccinated, may have been exposed others to the highly contagious virus at Children's Primary Care Medical Group El Cajon, as well as at Rady Children's Emergency Department, according to the county. Health officials are working with employees of both health care facilities to identify and follow up with patients and staff.

"Measles is a very contagious disease that can be spread easily by coughing, sneezing or being in the same room with an infected person," County Public Health Officer Dr. Wilma J. Wooten said in a statement.

Measles develops seven to 21 days after exposure. Early symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes. A distinctive red rash usually appears one to four days after early symptoms start.

A person is considered contagious four days before and four days after the rash appears. The rash typically begins on the face and head, then proceeds downward and outward to the hands and feet. It fades in the same order it began, from head to feet.

People with symptoms were asked to call their doctor's office in advance, rather than visit an office directly, so that infection control measures may be taken to prevent exposure to others.

Complications from measles are more common in children younger than 5 years old and adults 20 years and older, according to the county. Complications can include diarrhea, ear infections and pneumonia. Death can occur from severe complications and the risk is higher among younger children and adults.

Although there is no treatment for measles, health officials recommended bed rest, fluids and fever control.

"The best way to prevent measles is by getting the measles vaccine," Wooten said. "With measles outbreaks occurring in several countries, it is very important that all international travelers get vaccinated. Infants between 6 and 12 months of age who travel should get one dose, and travelers over 12 months of age should get two doses at least four weeks apart."

Here's a list of the dates and locations where exposure may have occurred:

• Children's Primary Care Medical Group El Cajon located at 844 Jackman St., on May 12, from 9:10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Rady Children's Emergency Department located at 3020 Children's Way, 1st Floor in San Diego, on May 13, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.