Santa Barbara County is reporting its first confirmed case of measles since 2019.Health Department officials say the infected person recently traveled outside of the country. They call it an “isolated case” and that the county is coordinating with local healthcare providers and people who potentially could have been exposed to prevent further transmission.No further information about the infected patient was released.Measles is highly contagious, but doctors say people who are fully vaccinated have a very low risk of infection.The virus spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes.Symptoms typically appear seven to 14 days after exposure and include:Cough, runny nose, and red/watery eyes (conjunctivitis)Rash, typically 3-5 days following the initial symptoms, that starts on the face, hairline and neck, spreading downwardHigh fever (may spike above 104° F when the rash appears)
Measles cases rise across California, symptoms to look out for
Health officials say, if you develop symptoms, stay home and call your healthcare provider immediately.
