16 cases of measles have been reported in northern Manhattan and the Bronx by the New York City Health Department. The department officials also reported four cases of hospitalizations because of the outbreak in the city.
Rashes on face and on whole body with fever, cough, redness in eyes and running nose are some of the symptoms associated with the highly contagious viral infection. The health officials said that the virus spreads to complete infection within four hours of contract.
About 33% of patients with measles can suffer pneumonia, miscarriage, brain inflammation, hospitalization and even death. Pregnant women and infants below one year of age with weaker immune system are at higher risk of severe illness and complications, said health officials.
Health Officials warned people in New York to get vaccinated against the disease. Also, some special precautions have been made mandatory in the hospitals to prevent additional exposure to the virus in emergency departments.
The officials have urged better pediatric-care facilities in Manhattan and the Bronx to early diagnose symptoms of the disease to protect children from being infected. They are also planning to vaccinate every child with the MMR vaccine and to provide second dose of MMR vaccination to children during their next medical visit.
News Source: http://newstonight.co.za/content/new-york-city-health-department-reports-16-cases-measles
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