Unvaccinated measles patient visited Ark Encounter in KY, health officials say
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Unvaccinated measles patient visited Ark Encounter Dec. 29, exposing visitors.
- Patient also stayed at Holiday Inn & Suites in Dry Ridge Dec. 28-30, possible exposures.
- Health department urges 21-day monitoring and contact with providers for symptoms.
An out-of-state measles patient recently visited the Ark Encounter in Northern Kentucky, exposing other guests to the highly contagious respiratory virus, according to the Kentucky Department for Public Health.
The patient, who is unvaccinated, visited the Ark Encounter on Dec. 29, according to a Dec. 31 Facebook post by health officials.
The health department said the patient also stayed at the Holiday Inn & Suites on Sgt. Daniel Wallace Way in Dry Ridge from Dec. 28 to 30.
No other details about the patient, like age or state of residence, were provided.
The health department said anyone who may have been exposed to measles is encouraged to monitor for symptoms, such as fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes and rash, for 21 days.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that can infect up to 90% of unprotected individuals if they are exposed. The virus spreads through respiratory droplets that can remain in the air for up to two hours.
It is especially dangerous for pregnant women and young, unvaccinated children, possibly leading to brain swelling, pneumonia, death and other serious complications. Given how fast measles spreads, anyone who suspects they may have it should contact their local health department and health care provider.
Kentucky health officials said vaccination — through the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine — is the best protection against measles.
