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A measles outbreak is spreading in a county in Washington known for not choosing to vaccinate its children, and health officials have declared a public health emergency.
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Health officials warn of possible exposure to measles in a hotel and restaurant in Indianapolis.

A case of measles was confirmed in a foreign person who visited the two localities last week, said Wednesday the Department of Public Health of Marion County in a press release.

On March 18, the person was at the Microtel Inn & Suites at 5815 Rockville Road, on the west side, and at Shapiro's Delicatessen, at 808 S. Meridian St., in downtown Indianapolis, the statement said.

Measles is a virus that usually starts with a high fever, a cough and a runny nose. After a few days, a skin rash appears which extends downward from the face. The rash can also cause an outbreak of fever. In severe cases, this can lead to pneumonia, encephalitis and even death.

At least one case of measles has been reported in Bloomington, Indiana County, where health workers are in the process of ivigestion. (Photo: Everyday health)

"The symptoms of one of these specific exposures in Indianapolis will begin between March 25 and April 8," the statement said.

Most people in Marion County should already be vaccinated against measles. The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps and rubella) is usually given to children aged 12 to 15 months and then to 4 to 6 years of age, the department said.

Anyone who may have been exposed and who is starting to develop symptoms is asked to contact their health care provider.

Contact the journalist IndyStar Crystal Hill at 317-444-6094 or [email protected]. Follow her on Twitter: @ Chrysnhill.

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