WILLIAMSTOWN, Ky. (WKRC) – The Kentucky Department for Public Health issued a measles exposure alert after an unvaccinated, out-of-state individual visited the Ark Encounter in Williamstown on Dec. 29.
The individual also stayed at the Holiday Inn Express in Dry Ridge from Dec. 28 to Dec. 30. The Northern Kentucky Health Department is responding to the potential exposure.
“Measles is a highly contagious disease,” said Jennifer Mooney, Ph.D., MPH, director for health at the Northern Kentucky Health District. “Being around so many people at a place such as the Ark Encounter creates the potential for wide exposure. We want to make sure everyone who visited during that time is aware they may have been exposed to the measles, and they should monitor themselves for symptoms.”
Mooney emphasized the importance of the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine.
“The vaccine has been administered to millions of people over several decades and has a proven health and safety record,” she said.
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Health officials said they are notifying the public to ensure anyone who was at the locations during the specified times can take steps to protect their health and limit the spread of measles. Visitors are advised to check their vaccination status, monitor for symptoms, avoid high-risk settings if not immune and consult health care providers if needed.