Officials have alerted attendees of a total solar eclipse event at the Children's Museum of Indianapolis in Indiana that they may have been exposed to measles. The Marion County Public Health Department (MCPHD) announced on Friday that an infected individual from out of state had attended the event on April 8, potentially putting others at risk.

According to Melissa McMasters, administrator of infectious disease and immunizations at the MCPHD, the local county department was notified about the infected patient by the state's Department of Health. Since measles is a reportable disease, required by law due to its public health significance, the patient's personal information, including their name, age, sex, race/ethnicity, and state of origin, cannot be disclosed to the public.

Although no cases have been reported yet, health officials are urging anyone who attended the event and is susceptible to measles to be particularly vigilant. Symptoms of measles typically manifest within 7 to 14 days of exposure and include fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, and eventually a rash that starts on the face and spreads downward.

The Children's Museum of Indianapolis has taken swift action in response to the potential exposure. Out of the 3,527 individuals in attendance on April 8, the museum has sent email notifications to households for whom they had contact information and informed all staff and volunteers.

While measles complications can range from rashes to severe conditions such as viral sepsis, pneumonia, or encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), the risk to the general public in this case is considered low. The majority of people are vaccinated against measles, and no cases have been reported in the county so far.

However, anyone suspecting they may have contracted measles is strongly advised to stay home and immediately contact a healthcare provider. Public health authorities emphasize the importance of measles vaccinations in preventing the spread of the virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, with the first dose between 12 and 15 months of age and the second dose between 4 and 6 years of age. One dose is 93% effective in preventing infection, while two doses offer 97% effectiveness.

This potential exposure incident comes amidst a concerning increase in measles cases across various regions during the first quarter of 2024. Several localized outbreaks have occurred, including at a children's hospital and daycare center in Philadelphia, an elementary school in Florida, and a migrant center in Chicago. In February, Indiana reported its first measles case in five years, originating from a Lake County resident who sought medical care in Chicago.

Health officials stress the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates within the population to prevent measles outbreaks. Efforts are being made to ensure public safety and to disseminate information regarding the possibility of measles exposure. Individuals with concerns or inquiries are encouraged to contact their local health department or consult a medical professional.

The potential exposure incident at the Children's Museum of Indianapolis highlights the need for continued vigilance and proactive measures to combat measles and protect public health.