Passengers at Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport may have been exposed to measles last week, warns the Ohio Department of Health. The potential exposure occurred in Terminal A at CVG during specific times on Saturday, Jan. 27 and Monday, Jan. 29.
However, health officials are quick to clarify that this exposure is related to a child in Montgomery County with measles and is not an additional case. Montgomery County health officials report that the last confirmed case of measles in the area was in 2005.
To prevent further spread of the virus, the Ohio Department of Health is now working closely with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as well as other state and local health officials, in identifying potentially exposed individuals. This includes reaching out to passengers who were on specific flights during the mentioned dates.
It is crucial for individuals to be aware of the symptoms of measles. These include a high fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes, and a rash that appears 3-5 days after other symptoms. Anyone who begins experiencing these symptoms is advised to stay home, away from others, and immediately contact their healthcare provider.
Measles is highly contagious, with the virus able to remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left the room. This means that anyone who has been in the vicinity of an infected individual during the mentioned dates should be cautious.
According to health officials, approximately 9 out of 10 unvaccinated children who are exposed to measles can become infected, with symptoms potentially appearing up to 21 days after exposure. Moreover, individuals with measles are contagious four days before the rash appears, continuing to be contagious for four days thereafter.
In order to safeguard against measles, it is crucial for individuals to ensure they are up to date with their vaccinations. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the spread of this highly contagious disease.
With the potential exposure at Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport, health officials are urging affected individuals to take the necessary precautions and seek medical advice if symptoms arise.