Multnomah County has reported Oregon’s first case of measles this year. An unvaccinated adult who recently traveled outside the U.S. started showing symptoms on June 16 and tested positive for measles on June 23.
Read the full Oregon Health Authority (OHA) update, including possible exposure locations in the Portland area, at: https://ow.ly/WxbT50WfKQT
Lincoln County Public Health is watching the situation closely and will post updates at: www.co.lincoln.or.us/1223
What you need to know about measles:
- Measles spreads easily through the air when a sick person coughs or sneezes.
- People with measles can spread it four days before and four days after the rash appears.
- The virus can stay in the air for up to two hours after the sick person has left.
- Anyone who hasn’t had the measles vaccine is at risk of getting measles if exposed to it.
- The vaccine is the best protection against measles.
If you or your child haven’t had the vaccine — or if you're not sure — now is the time to get it. - Measles is most dangerous for:
- Pregnant people who haven’t had the vaccine
- Babies under 1 year old
- People with weak immune systems
- Most people are protected if they:
- were born before 1957
- Already had measles
- Had two doses of the measles vaccine
- Had a blood test that shows immunity
- If you feel sick (fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, rash) and think you might have been exposed, call your doctor or clinic before going in. This helps keep others safe.
Where to get the measles vaccine:
If you or your child need the measles vaccine, contact one of these locations:
- Coastal Healthcare – Call 541-265-4947
(Offers appointments for new and current patients of all ages) - Pharmacies – Walmart, Walgreens, or Safeway pharmacies
(Vaccine appointments for adult and children) - Samaritan Health Services Pediatrics
- If your child is already a patient, call their doctor’s office.
- To become a new patient, call 1-800-863-5241.
Not sure if you’re vaccinated? Call your doctor or Lincoln County Public Health at 541-265-4112.