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Super Bowl fans warned of measles

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February 09, 2012|By Kay Lazar

A heads-up to Patriots fans who traveled to Indianapolis for the Super Bowl: Massachusetts public health officials yesterday issued a measles alert for anyone who attended the Super Bowl Village - a three-block outdoor festival in downtown Indianapolis - last Friday because they may have been exposed to the highly contagious illness.

Indiana disease trackers have confirmed a case of measles in a person who attended activities in the village on Feb. 3.

On that day alone, more than 200,000 people made their way through Super Bowl Village, according to the host committee, and the area took on a carnival-like atmosphere during the week leading up to the big game. There were ice sculptures and zip lines, concerts and cold beer. Children and adults played touch football on a miniature turf field. And people stopped to take pictures of Indy cars painted in Giants and Patriots colors.

Indiana officials have confirmed two cases overall in their state, and they said in a news release that there were two other residents with probable measles. The state has notified the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and is working with health officials in New York and Massachusetts, the statement said.

The Massachusetts health alert says people born in the United States before 1957 are likely immune to measles because the disease was so widespread then, but they may consider getting a vaccine to bolster their immunity if they went to the village.

It recommends that people born in or after 1957, and who do not have documentation of having the vaccination, should call their health care provider to receive a shot as soon as possible.

Measles is a very contagious disease that usually lasts a week or two. It can cause ear infections, pneumonia, and swelling of the brain in some people, especially pregnant women, infants, and those with weakened immune systems, health officials said.

The warning recommends that people who may have been exposed to measles and who do not have evidence of immunity should watch for onset of symptoms, typically 10 to 14 days after exposure. Those symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes.

These initial symptoms are followed by a red, blotchy rash approximately 14 days after exposure. Individuals who were possibly exposed at the Super Bowl Village should look for symptoms beginning approximately on Monday, officials said.

If you suspect you may be at risk for measles, officials suggest that you contact your medical provider before going to the doctor, to avoid exposing additional individuals.

For more information, call the Department of Public Health at 617-983-6800.