The Bucks County Health Department issued a press release Thursday reporting that a local resident has tested positive for measles after recently traveling to Texas.
The individual, a vaccinated adult, reportedly has symptoms that are “relatively mild.” The Health Department has contact traced all locations throughout the county where the individual has visited, as well as the people they may have exposed the virus to.
“Anyone who visited Starbucks at 2896 S. Eagle Road in Newtown between 10:50 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. on March 19 should monitor for symptoms, especially a cough, runny nose or red eyes,” the Bucks County Health Department warned in their press release. “Other symptoms of measles include headache, sneezing, and a red skin rash starting on the face and neck. “
The Health Department advises that if you believe you were exposed to measles or experience any symptoms and plan to receive medical care to call the healthcare facility in advance to let them know of the situation.
“Two doses of the vaccine will be 97 percent effective in preventing all illness. However, even though a vaccinated person can still get measles, they are more likely to experience a mild illness and are thus less likely to spread it,” said Health Department Director Dr. David Damsker. “The best way to hold this virus in check is to have high levels of community vaccination rates.”
