STATE
Measles exposure warning issued for Las Cruces courthouse
A federal detainee has tested positive for the virus, bringing the state's total number of cases to 16 this year
SANTA FE 鈥� A federal detainee held at the Luna County Detention Center has tested positive for measles, bringing New Mexico's total number of cases this year to 16, according to the New Mexico Department of Health.
Health officials said people may have been exposed to the virus at the U.S. District Court building, 100 N. Church St. in Las Cruces, between 8:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. May 27.
The Department of Health and court administrative staff are working to notify and educate employees and others who may have been exposed and to help prevent additional infections.
Anyone who develops symptoms and believes they may have been exposed should call the Department of Health Helpline at 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833-796-8773). Nurses are available to provide guidance in English and Spanish. Health officials advise people to contact a doctor or emergency department before seeking care so providers can prepare for their arrival.
Measles symptoms typically appear seven to 21 days after exposure and begin with fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes. A red, spotted rash usually follows, starting on the face or head and spreading downward across the body. People infected with measles can spread the virus from four days before the rash appears until four days afterward.
"The New Mexico Department of Health continues to urge people to get the measles, mumps and rubella vaccination, the best tool to protect against measles," said Dr. Chad Smelser, the department's deputy state epidemiologist.
Earlier this year, the department reported 15 measles cases linked to three county detention centers. Ten cases were reported at the Luna County Detention Center, three at the Do帽a Ana County Detention Center and two at the Hidalgo County Detention Center. All involved federal detainees.
People who are unsure of their vaccination status can check their records through the state's VaxView system or by calling the Department of Health Helpline. Questions can also be submitted by text message to 66364.
