CHENANGO COUNTY - Chenango County Public Health, in collaboration with the New York State Department of Health and local healthcare providers, is reminding residents that there has been measles activity in the region.

This precautionary reminder is intended to help residents take the appropriate steps to protect themselves and others.

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads through the air. Symptoms typically include fever, cough, runny nose, red or watery eyes, followed by a rash that generally begins on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.

If You Develop Symptoms and Suspect Measles:

Do not go directly to a healthcare provider’s office, urgent care, or emergency department without calling first.

1. Call your healthcare provider ahead of time.
Tell the office that you may have been exposed to measles or that you have symptoms that could be consistent with measles. Healthcare providers will give you instructions on when and where to go for evaluation while taking steps to prevent exposure to other patients and staff.

2. If you need to go to an emergency department, call ahead.
If your symptoms require emergency medical care, notify the emergency department before arriving so they can make appropriate arrangements to limit potential exposure to others.

3. Contact Chenango County Public Health.
If you believe you have been exposed to measles or develop symptoms consistent with measles, contact Chenango County Public Health at (607) 337-1660. Public health staff can provide guidance regarding exposure, monitoring, testing, and next steps. Calling ahead is an important step in protecting the community. Because measles is highly contagious, calling before arriving at a healthcare facility allows medical staff to take precautions and helps prevent potential exposure to other patients, visitors, and healthcare workers.

Protect Yourself and Your Family

The best protection against measles is vaccination.Two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine provide the best protection against measles.

Chenango County Public Health offers the MMR vaccine to eligible individuals. Residents who are unsure of their vaccination status or would like more information about receiving the MMR vaccine can contact Chenango County Public Health at (607) 337-1660.

Vaccination remains an important tool in protecting individuals, families, and the broader community. Chenango County Public Health continues to monitor measles activity and is working with healthcare partners and the New York State Department of Health to respond to potential cases and exposures.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed, know their vaccination status, and follow the appropriate protocol if they develop symptoms. Awareness and early communication are important in preventing the spread of measles and protecting our community.

For more information about measles visit:

New York State Department of Health: www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/measles/

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: www.cdc.gov/measles.

Persons with questions or requiring additional information may contact the Chenango County Health Department at (607) 337-1660.

- From Chenango County Public Health