ANAHEIM, Calif.
The measles outbreak that originated at the Disneyland theme parks has continued to spread, and has now reportedly infected victims in six additional states as well as Mexico.
The California Department of Public Health has reported that 79 of the 95 cases were in California, with 52 of those cases directly tied to Disneyland visits. Cases have also been reported in Arizona, Colorado, Nebraska, Oregon, Utah and Washington.
While Disneyland had issued no clear plan of action as this article went to post, a statement from their Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Pamela Hymel, explains that the park has been testing staffers as a precaution and not returning any infected employees to work until they have been medically cleared. Additionally, all unvaccinated parties are advised to receive vaccinations before visiting.
The California Department of Public Health has urged those who are not vaccinated against the virus to do so, and has also advised any individual displaying signs of measles to immediately contact their health care provider. Symptoms can begin with a cold, runny nose, cough and fever before leading to the appearance of the rash.
The spread of the virus has thrown a particular scare into the Phoenix area, where the city will be hosting the Super Bowl this Sunday. Officials there in the outlying counties of Maricopa, Pinal and Gila are on the lookout for those who may have been exposed to sites visited by previously infected residents.
Meetings Focus will continue to monitor the situation as it develops.
Possible resources:
Message from Disney Parks Medical Examiner
Update from California Department of Public Health
Updated resource:
New York Times measles coverage and facts (with map)
