Coconino County Health and Human Services has confirmed that a person infectious with measles visited the Flagstaff Mall on Nov. 6 between 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Measles can linger in the air for up to two hours after the infectious person leaves the area. The stated exposure window includes the additional time.

CCHHS is providing this notification so that individuals who may have been exposed can watch for symptoms and seek medical care if symptoms develop. There have been no confirmed cases of measles this year amongst Coconino County residents.

Measles spreads by direct contact with an infected person or through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. A person with measles can give the disease to other people even before they feel sick.

About 90% of unvaccinated individuals who are exposed to measles may become infected.

Measles can cause serious illness, especially in young children, pregnant women and people with depressed immune systems. Measles is preventable with two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine, typically given during childhood. Adults need at least one dose of MMR vaccine given after the age of one.

What to do if you were at the specified location on the date and time of exposure:

Make sure you are up-to-date with the recommended number of measles vaccinations.

Anyone who may have been exposed should watch for symptoms. The symptoms of measles generally appear about seven to 21 days after a person is exposed, and include:

▪ High fever, warmer than 101 degrees Fahrenheit

▪ Cough

▪ Malaise, i.e., feeling run down, achy

▪ Red, watery eyes or conjunctivitis

▪ Runny nose

▪ Blotchy rash that usually starts on the face starting at the hairline, extends down the body and can involve palms and soles

Individuals who develop any symptoms of measles should self-isolate, stay away from others and seek medical care. People with measles symptoms should first call their health care provider or medical facility before going in so they can receive instructions to prevent exposing others.

Health care providers are encouraged to be alert for unvac­cinated patients with fever and rash, especially if they have a known exposure. Health care providers are required to report suspected cases of measles to their local health department.