Measles Case Confirmed in St. Louis Area Raises Health Concerns
ST. LOUIS, Mo. – Health officials in the St. Louis area are urging awareness after a case of internationally-imported measles was confirmed. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, along with the St. Louis County and St. Charles County Departments of Public Health, have been alerted to the situation. Currently, tests are being conducted to determine the specific strain of the disease, while officials from all agencies are working diligently to alert individuals who may have been exposed.
The current known location and time of exposure are as follows:
– GYM: Fitness Edge (10571 Old Olive Street Rd, Creve Coeur, MO 63141)
– July 21: Possible exposure risk from 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
– July 24: Possible exposure risk from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
– July 25: Possible exposure risk from 6:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
– URGENT CARE: Total Access Urgent Care (2138 1st Capitol Dr., St Charles, MO 63301)
– July 25: Possible exposure risk from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
– HOSPITAL: Emergency Department at Barnes-Jewish Hospital St. Peters (10 Hospital Dr., St Peters, MO 63376)
– July 25: Possible exposure risk from 8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Measles is a highly contagious disease, and health officials are urging the public to be aware of the symptoms, which typically include a rash that starts as flat red spots at the hairline and spreads to other parts of the body. Other common symptoms may include a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. These symptoms usually appear 7-21 days after exposure.
If you believe you have been exposed to measles, it is crucial to contact your healthcare provider immediately to set up an appointment for testing. For safety precautions, it is advised to avoid going to the doctor’s office without contacting your health provider first. The measles virus can remain infectious in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area.
Measles is a vaccine-preventable disease, and health officials recommend checking with your healthcare provider to ensure that you and your family are up-to-date on vaccinations.
Residents with additional questions or concerns are encouraged to contact their local health department. St. Louis County residents may discuss their immunization status and request a measles immunity test by calling the St. Louis Department of Public Health at 314-615-1630 during regular business hours and 314-615-7677 after business hours. To contact the St. Charles County Department of Public Health, call (636) 949-7319.
As health authorities continue to investigate the case and monitor the situation, they emphasize the importance of taking necessary precautions to prevent the further spread of measles. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and prioritize your health and the health of your loved ones.
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