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California health scare: Potential viral explosion shocks Sacramento residents, more than 100 kids feared exposed
Sacramento health officials have warned that a potential viral explosion may have occurred, with over 100 children possibly exposed to measles.
Sacramento, California, health officials have warned that a potential viral explosion may have occurred, with over 100 children possibly exposed to measles at an educational enrichment program. Officials sounded the alarm after an unvaccinated child, who was infectious at the time, attended the unidentified program in Sacramento County last week.
The health scare
Public health officials have said that 130 children may have been exposed to the virus, according to the New York Post. After the incident, the enrichment program temporarily closed its facility.
“Measles, one of the most contagious infections, can lead to severe life-long consequences including permanent brain damage and can also be fatal, especially for children,” said Dr. Erica Pan, CDPH Director and State Public Health Officer, in a March 6 release.
Pan added, “The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and provides long-lasting protection against measles. Vaccination protects both our own families and those who are too young to be fully vaccinated.”
At least six cases have already been confirmed across Sacramento and neighboring Placer County since late February.
A health scare also terrified a local hospital. One of the children who was infected was treated at the Kaiser Permanente Roseville Medical Center on the morning of March 2. The hospital has since been tracking d
According to the Cleveland Clinic, “Measles is a highly contagious disease that causes a high fever, rash, cough and red eyes. It can lead to life-threatening complications, like brain inflammation and pneumonia. It’s caused by a virus. Getting the measles vaccine is the best way to prevent getting and spreading measles.”
It adds, “Measles virus (genus Morbillivirus) causes measles. It’s an airborne disease, which means it spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, sneezes or talks. The airborne droplets can remain in a room for two hours even after the person with measles is gone. Droplets can also land on surfaces you touch.”
