Supt. Jennifer Guy of Los Alamos Public Schools recently discussed the recent case of measles confirmed in New Mexico. Currently, there have been no reported cases in Los Alamos Public Schools.
Measles symptoms typically develop 7-14 days after exposure and can include fever, cough, runny nose, and pink eye. A rash often follows 2-4 days later, but some immunocompromised individuals may not display the characteristic rash.
The highly contagious disease can lead to severe complications, such as pneumonia, brain inflammation, or even death. Measles spreads through direct contact with infectious droplets released by an infected person’s coughing and sneezing.
Infected individuals are contagious from 4 days before their rash appears until 4 days after it develops. They must isolate at home for four days after the rash emerges. Even after leaving a location, the virus can linger in the air for up to two hours.
Those most vulnerable to severe illness or the disease include:
* Unvaccinated individuals with two doses of MMR vaccine
* Infants and children under 5 years old
* Immunocompromised students and staff members
* Pregnant women
If you suspect measles exposure, contact your healthcare provider and school nurse immediately. They can provide information on vaccinations and measles prevention from reputable sources like the New Mexico Department of Health (https://www.nmhealth.org/news/vaccine/).
Source: https://losalamosreporter.com/2025/02/14/laps-supt-jennifer-guy-says-no-cases-of-measles-known-at-laps-at-this-time