With ongoing measles outbreak, Adirondack Health infection prevention specialists have instituted enhanced surveillance protocols to identify and mitigate any potential appearance of the disease in the Tri-Lakes region.

Following an interdisciplinary review of regional public health data, Adirondack Health clinicians conducted a vulnerability assessment to inform patient screening policies. Healthcare workers will be asking additional questions to identify potential measles risk in outpatient settings and have a plan in place to reduce the likelihood of transmission if the measles virus is suspected.

In addition, Adirondack Health must adhere to New York State Department of Health 405.3 regulations and the CDC recommendation for vaccines and serologic proof of preventable diseases in healthcare workers. As part of this adherence, measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccination or proof of immunity is required for all those working in Adirondack Health facilities.

According to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, measles can cause serious health complications – particularly, though not exclusively, in children younger than five years of age. Common symptoms include fever, rash, cough, runny nose and red eyes. The measles virus can be transmitted between susceptible individuals up to four days before and after the development of a corresponding rash.

To learn more about the Measles virus, click here, or contact Mim Millar at (518) 897-2705.