Measles Case Confirmed In Orange County After Infant Visits CHOC

ORANGE COUNTY, CA — A measles case was confirmed by the Orange County Health Care Agency Thursday, after an infant infected with the virus returned to the county after traveling internationally.

According to the OC Health Care Agency, the infant was taken to the Children's Hospital of Orange County Emergency Department three separate times.

• From noon to 5 p.m., Nov. 30.
• From 2 to 10 p.m., Monday.
• From 5:30 to 9 p.m. Tuesday.

"The HCA has been working with Children's Hospital of Orange County to contact anyone who may have been exposed to this case and who are at increased risk of severe outcomes, such as infants, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems," according to the agency.

Other people who potentially may have been exposed were urged to confirm their vaccination status or possible immunization through prior infection.

Those who are not immune could be at risk of developing measles between seven and 21 days from exposure, health officials said.

"Measles is highly contagious and can lead to severe disease in some individuals. Common symptoms include fever, rash, cough, and red, watery eyes," Dr. Regina Chinsio-Kwong, county health officer, said in a statement. "With recent and upcoming holiday travel there are potential areas of exposure. If you are planning to travel and have not been immunized, talk to a provider to consider getting a vaccine. It is important for those returning from travel to monitor for symptoms. If a rash develops, call your medical provider before arriving at the medical office, to avoid exposing others to the measles virus. Immunization provides the best protection."