Two cases of measles have been confirmed in separate individuals from the same household in Clackamas County, Oregon. The first case was reported on June 11, 2024, and the second case emerged a few days later. Both individuals were unvaccinated.
The exact location of their initial exposure is unknown, leading Oregon health officials to suggest there may be more unreported cases in the state. The two people are currently recovering.
Health officials have identified two potential exposure sites: OHSU Immediate Care Richmond Clinic and OHSU Hospital Emergency Department. The time frames for potential exposure at these locations are as follows:
OHSU Immediate Care Richmond Clinic, located on Southeast Division Street in Portland, between 4:40 p.m. and 5:40 p.m. on Wednesday, June 12. OHSU Hospital Emergency Department, located on Southwest Sam Jackson Park Road in Portland, between 6 p.m. Wednesday, June 12, and 7:15 p.m Friday, June 14.
Measles is a highly contagious disease that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Contagion lasts four days before a rash appears and up to four days after it presents. Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.
Those at highest risk for measles include unvaccinated pregnant people, infants younger than 1 year old, and individuals with weakened immune systems. It is crucial that all adults and children in their household be up-to-date on vaccinations to prevent further spread of the disease.
Measles was declared eliminated in the US in 2000 but has seen a resurgence recently. In 2019, there were 28 reported cases, and as of June 13, there were zero confirmed cases in Oregon. However, with these recent developments, that number is expected to change.
If you suspect you or someone in your household has measles or have been exposed to the virus between May 19 and June 4 in Marion County or at the identified exposure sites on the specified dates, contact your healthcare provider before seeking medical care to create an entry plan that avoids exposing others.
