Health officials are warning of a potential measles exposure at the St. Louis Aquarium after an infected person visited the location last week.
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) reported Sunday that an out-of-state resident diagnosed with measles was at the aquarium on Wednesday, April 30, between 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. The person also reportedly ate at a restaurant in the area, but details regarding that visit are limited.
Anyone who visited the St. Louis Aquarium during this time frame should watch for symptoms for 21 days. Health officials advise individuals who may have been exposed and are unvaccinated or immunocompromised to consider post-exposure prophylaxis. The recommended window for prophylaxis effectiveness is within six days of exposure, which is by May 6.
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory illness, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It causes a characteristic rash and fever. Although eliminated in the U.S. for many years, cases still occur due to unvaccinated travelers importing the virus, leading to spread in communities with low vaccination rates. Learn more about measles from the DHSS website.
The Missouri DHSS stated that one person with measles can easily transmit the virus to about 9 out of 10 unvaccinated people around them. Measles attack rate nearly 90%, warns Missouri doctor.
Symptoms typically appear seven to 14 days after infection. Initial signs include a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. Tiny white spots may develop inside the mouth two to three days after symptoms begin. A rash usually starts on the face at the hairline three to five days in, then spreads down the body.
Children under 5, adults older than 20, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems face increased risk of severe measles complications, including pneumonia or swelling of the brain. These complications can lead to hospitalization or death.
Missouri has recorded one confirmed case this year, involving a child in Taney County who had traveled internationally.
Public health authorities recommend the two-dose MMR vaccination as the most effective preventive measure. The vaccination prevents more than 97% of measles cases. The CDC and the Missouri DHSS advise children receive the first MMR dose at 12 to 15 months and the second at 4 to 6 years. Unvaccinated adults can also receive catch-up MMR vaccination.
If you believe you have contracted measles, health officials advise isolating yourself and contacting your healthcare provider before visiting a clinic or hospital to prevent potential transmission to others.