CLACKAMAS, Ore. (KATU) — Health officials are warning the public about a new measles exposure site at the Kaiser Permanente Sunnyside Medical Center in Clackamas.
Officials with the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Clackamas County say anyone who visited the Kaiser Permanente Sunnyside Medical Center emergency department waiting room on Monday, Aug. 17, between 12:33 p.m. and 2:33 p.m., may have been exposed.
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People who were at this location during this date and time should check their vaccination records and monitor for signs and symptoms of measles.
People born after 1957 who have not had measles and have not been vaccinated against it should receive an MMR vaccine as soon as possible, health officials said.
Families who do not have a primary care provider can establish care at one of Multnomah County’s seven primary care clinics or nine student health centers. The student health centers are located at high schools but are open to anyone ages 5 to 18.
Families can call 503-988-5558 to make a new patient appointment.
Clackamas County residents can also schedule an appointment with a Clackamas County Health Center.
ABOUT MEASLES
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory virus that spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, speaks, coughs or sneezes. The virus can linger in the air for up to two hours and can infect up to 90% of unprotected close contacts. Complications can include pneumonia, brain inflammation and death.
Nationwide, measles cases have been rising since early 2025. Nearly 2,300 cases were reported last year, with most occurring among unvaccinated children.
Symptoms typically begin seven to 21 days after exposure and include cough, runny nose and conjunctivitis accompanied by a high fever. A rash usually follows, starting on the head or neck and spreading downward. People are contagious from four days before the rash appears until four days after.
HA advises health care providers to report suspected cases immediately and consider post-exposure treatment for exposed patients. The measles, mumps and rubella vaccine can be given within 72 hours of exposure. Immunoglobulin may be administered within six days.
For most people 6 months and older who are eligible for vaccination, receiving the MMR vaccine within 72 hours of exposure is recommended.
Anyone not protected against measles is at risk, according to OHA. The agency encourages residents to check their vaccination status and contact a health care provider with questions.