Eight new cases of the measles have been confirmed in Arizona, all originating from a private detention center in Eloy. This now brings the count of measles cases in Arizona up to ten from a previous two. The detention center is reportedly taking all steps possible to prevent further cases. On Saturday night, health officials have issued a health alert for those in Pinal County and those who have been in the following locations:
- 1-5 p.m. May 15; 6-10 p.m. May 16; 7-10:30 p.m. May 18 at the Apostolic Assembly – The Faith, 424 E. Frontier Street in Eloy.
- 6-9 p.m. May 17 at the Villa Oasis High School graduation, 3740 N Toltec Road in Toltec.
- 1-5:30 p.m. May 18 at Cottonwood Medical Center, 560 North Camino Mercado, Unit 7 in Casa Grande.
- 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. May 21 at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, 15406 North Maricopa Road in Maricopa.
- 8:30-11 a.m. May 22 at Arco AM/PM Store, 2245 East Florence Boulevard in Casa Grande.
Health officials say that those who were in these locations during these times should monitor themselves for symptoms until mid-June, as it make take a while for the disease to develop. This is particularly true for individuals who have not yet been vaccinated for measles-mumps-rubella. Those born before 1957 and received only one of the vaccines are also immune from developing the disease.
It has also been reported that shoppers at Maysville Road Kohl’s and Wal-Mart on May 20 from 1-5pm may have also been exposed to the virus.
Dr. Cara Christ, the director of Arizona Department of Health Services, says:
“It’s extremely important that people who have a rash and fever call their health care provider or emergency department ahead of time to let them know they may have measles. This will help stop the spread of measles.”
Symptoms of measles may not appear until 12 days or longer after exposure. They include a fever of 101 Fahrenheit or more, a cough, runny nose, red watery eyes and a red raised blotchy rash. The rash begins at the hairline and face and slowly moves down the body.
If you suspect you have measles call your doctor and let them know so that they can advise you on how to receive treatment without infecting others. Avoid visiting the emergency room or urgent care, if possible. However if you must, call ahead to let them know you may have measles.
