MAYVILLE, N.Y. — The Chautauqua County Health Department (CCHD) is reporting its first lab-confirmed measles case in a Chautauqua County resident in more than thirty years. As part of its ongoing efforts to prevent disease, promote wellness, and protect the health of Chautauqua County residents, CCHD is taking proactive steps to respond to this case, reduce the risk of further spread, and ensure residents have access to the information, assistance, and support they need.
CCHD is working with the individual and appropriate health care partners to identify people who may have been exposed and provide guidance to those who may be at risk. CCHD will continue working with the community to provide access to vaccination, education, and treatment recommendations when necessary, while helping ensure individuals and families can access assistance and support as needed. More information will be shared if contact tracing identifies any known public exposures. Public health staff are also coordinating with local health care providers and New York State health officials to support a coordinated response.
Residents are reminded that measles is highly contagious and can spread through the air. Individuals who may have been exposed should monitor for symptoms and contact their health care provider or the Chautauqua County Health Department for guidance.
If you develop symptoms that may be consistent with measles, call your health care provider before going to a medical office, urgent care or emergency department. Calling ahead allows health care staff to take appropriate precautions to protect other patients and staff.
The Health Department strongly encourages residents to make sure they are up to date on the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine. Free MMR vaccination is widely available throughout the county and at the CCHD. Residents who are unsure of their vaccination status, do not have insurance, or are having difficulty accessing vaccination can contact CCHD at (716) 753-4491. A list of clinic sites can be found on their website at HealthyCHQ.com.
Individuals who cannot be vaccinated or who are not yet fully protected—including infants too young to be routinely vaccinated, pregnant persons, and certain individuals with medical conditions—are at greater risk if exposed to measles. These individuals and their caregivers should consider avoiding crowded public settings where they may be more likely to encounter someone who is infected, particularly while measles activity is present in the region.
Residents should continue to monitor HealthyCHQ.com for updates such as additional measles cases, information and public health guidance.
General information regarding measles can be found at:
About Chautauqua County Health Department - The Chautauqua County Health Department is the leading Public Health organization in Chautauqua County dedicated to the support of the community’s health. The Health Department takes innovative approaches to provide technical assistance to partner organizations, and offers various programs and services in order to help prevent disease, protect the public’s health and promote our community’s overall health and wellness. For more information visit www.HealthyCHQ.com.
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