Locals May Have Been Exposed to Measles, County Says

People in Rancho Bernardo, Carmel Mountain Ranch and Poway may have been exposed to measles recently, San Diego County's Health and Human Services agency announced Friday.

According to the agency, a 27-year-old Poway man became ill after traveling to the Philippines and Thailand, and visited several local places, including the Radisson Suites Hotel Rancho Bernardo.

“Measles is highly contagious and is spread easily by coughing, sneezing or even coming in close contact with an infected person,” County Deputy Public Health Officer Eric McDonald said in a statement. “The individual visited several places during the time he was infectious. Anyone who was at those locations during the same time, and who develops a rash and fever, should contact their medical provider by telephone and be evaluated for measles.”

In an e-mailed statement to Patch, a Radisson official said, "The California Health Services Department notified the hotel that a former guest reported an illness. At this time, there have been no reports of any on-site illnesses within the hotel. The Management will continue to cooperate with the Health Department on any further needs and assist in any way necessary. This is normal protocol for the Department of Health Services regarding lodging establishment state health regulations.”

Officials warned that potential for public exposure to the measles from this occurred at:

• Rite Aid, 11845 Carmel Mountain Rd., on March 12 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

• Costco, 12350 Carmel Mountain Rd., San Diego, on March 7 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. and March 9 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

• Radisson Hotel, 11520 West Bernardo Ct., on March 3 in the evening and March 4 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

However, according to McDonald, people do not have to worry about being at risk of the measles by visiting the three locations now.  

Measles can cause a rash, high fever, cough, runny nose and watery eyes, according to the agency. It can last for two weeks and can be spread starting four days before a rash appears. Complications, which are more common among children, can include diarrhea, ear infection and pneumonia. Death is also a possibility in severe cases.

Though there is no treatment for measles, bed rest, fluids and fever control are recommended.

The agency recommends all people obtain a measles vaccine. For more information, visit sdiz.org.