Measles Exposure Alert Issued for Rochester Restaurant and Hospital

Measles Exposure Alert Issued in Oakland County

Health officials in Oakland County have reported a potential measles exposure incident following an international traveler’s visit to a restaurant and hospital in Rochester earlier this month. Measles is known for its high contagiousness, particularly affecting those without vaccination or prior immunity.

Exposure Locations and Times

Authorities have identified specific times and locations where potential exposure to measles could have occurred:

On March 3rd, between 5:30 and 9:30 p.m., at Kruse & Muer Restaurant, located at 327 S. Main St. in Rochester.

From March 8, 3:40 a.m. to March 9, 9:32 a.m., in the emergency department at Henry Ford Rochester Hospital, 1101 W. University Drive, Rochester.

March 10, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., again at Henry Ford Rochester Hospital’s emergency department.

Advice for Potentially Exposed Individuals

Individuals who were present at these locations during the specified times and are unvaccinated should be vigilant for measles symptoms. Health officials strongly advise against visiting the emergency department without prior notification, as arrangements are necessary to safely isolate patients with this highly infectious disease. Anyone experiencing symptoms should call ahead to the emergency department.

Recognizing Measles Symptoms

In unvaccinated individuals, measles typically begins with a high fever, accompanied by respiratory symptoms such as a runny nose, cough, and red, watery eyes. This is followed by the appearance of tiny white spots inside the mouth, culminating in a red, raised rash. While measles is often uncomfortable, it can lead to severe complications and is occasionally fatal.

Risks and Prevention

Measles poses a particular threat to children under five, with statistics indicating that one to three out of every 1,000 infected children may die from the disease. Pregnant women are also at risk, as measles can result in miscarriages, premature births, and birth defects. The most effective preventive measure is the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is safe and prevents approximately 97% of measles cases when two doses are administered.