Public health officials in Kane County are warning residents of the potential for exposure to measles in multiple locations, including a high school.
According to officials, an unvaccinated individual was recently diagnosed with measles in the county, and although that individual is no longer contagious, officials are warning of potential exposures at two different locations.
The alert said students and faculty at Kaneland High School in Maple Park may have been exposed to the virus on August 18, with the patient on the school grounds for the entire day.
The patient also visited the Next Generation Pediatric Clinic in South Elgin on August 21, with potential exposures between 12:30 p.m. and 4 p.m.
Health officials say if residents were at either of those locations on those dates, they should determine whether they have immunity against measles, whether by vaccination or previous cases of the virus.
Those residents who are unvaccinated or unprotected, and who were exposed to the virus, are advised to stay home and to quarantine for up to 21 days from the date of exposure.
For those residents who are unsure about their vaccination status, health officials recommend visiting the state’s Vax Verify system, or to contact previously attended schools or healthcare providers for more information.
Residents who may have been exposed are also advised to monitor for symptoms of measles for up to 21 days after the date of exposure. Symptoms of measles include a fever of 101 degrees or higher, as well as a cough, runny nose and rash, which typically begins on near the scalp line and makes its way down the body during the course of the infection.
If residents develop symptoms, they are encouraged to contact their health provider immediately so that appropriate precautions can be taken before seeking medical help.
