CORTLAND, NY (607NewsNow) — As of August 28th, the Cortland County Health Department (CCHD) has confirmed one case of measles present in Cortland County.

The individual afflicted is currently recovering at home, making the risk to the general public considered low by the health department. CCHD is working to identify anyone who may have been exposed to this individual during the infectious period.

CCHD reminds residents that measles is a preventable disease and can have serious health complications, a vaccination being the best way to prevent contracting measles. Individuals are recommended to receive 2 doses of the MMR vaccine to be fully protected. Measles poses serious health risks for those who are unvaccinated, young children, or those who are immunocompromised.

Symptoms of the measles virus can take 7 to 21 days to appear and include cough, high fever, runny or congested nose, sore throat, watery eyes, and a red and blotchy rash that may occur within 3 to 5 days of the onset of cold-like symptoms. The rash usually appears on the face first and may spread down the neck, abdomen, arms, legs, and feet. The virus is easily spread through the air when an infected individual coughs or sneezes, as particles can remain in the air for up to 2 hours.

Individuals who show symptoms of the measles virus are encouraged to not go to the emergency room, urgent care, or a doctor’s office without calling first to avoid spreading the virus.

CCHD advises all who have not been vaccinated against measles or have had only one dose to contact their healthcare provider to get up to date with their vaccinations. CCHD offers the measles vaccination (MMR), and other vaccinations for county residents who are underinsured or uninsured. Call 607-753-5036 to find out if you qualify and learn more information on how to get vaccinated here.