Amid reports of measles cases in several states, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health Friday announced that one case has been confirmed in a non resident tourist who visited Santa Monica while infectious earlier this month.
According to county health officials, the patient visited the Sea Blue Hotel, 1670 Ocean Ave., from 1:30 p.m. on Aug. 8 until 1:30 p.m. on Aug. 10.
On Aug. 8, the individual visited Urth Caffe, 2327 Main St., from 4-6 p.m. and Chez Jay restaurant, 1657 Ocean Ave., from 8-11 p.m.
On Aug. 9, the person visited Cora's Coffee Shoppe, 1802 Ocean Ave., from 9 a.m. to noon and on Aug. 10 the restaurant at Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel, 1700 Ocean Ave., from 9 a.m. to noon.
"No current risk related to measles exists at these venues at this time as the period of possible exposure was more than one week ago," according to a Department of Public Health statement. "In addition, because measles is spread from person to person by the respiratory route, there is no risk present related to food that may have been consumed at these locations.
"However, individuals who were present at these locations during these times, especially those with weakened immune systems or persons who may not have been vaccinated against measles may be at risk of developing measles and should watch for symptoms of the illness.''
Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes and a rash that appears 10 to 12 days after exposure and anyone experiencing these should contact their health care provider.
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"Getting vaccinated is the best way to keep from getting and spreading measles," Los Angeles County Health Officer Dr. Muntu Davis said.
Those who may have been exposed and have not been immunized can get a measles shot and still be protected from developing the disease, Davis said.
"It is important to contact your doctor by phone before going to their office so measures can be taken to prevent possible spread to other patients or staff," Davis said.
