St. Joseph County health officials are urging anyone who was present at two specific medical locations during narrow time windows to contact the county health agency immediately. The alerts follow the confirmation of two measles infections among county residents.
Where and when exposure may have occurred
The Branch‑Hillsdale‑St. Joseph Community Health Agency identified the following sites as possible points of exposure:
- Three Rivers Health emergency department waiting area – Thursday, November 5, from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- WellNow Urgent Care in Sturgis – Monday, November 2, from 1:15 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Anyone who was in either location during those hours should call the agency’s St. Joseph County office at 269‑273‑2161, extension 241, for further instructions.
What measles looks like and why prompt action matters
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads through respiratory droplets. Early symptoms include a high fever, cough, runny nose and watery eyes. Small white spots, known as Koplik spots, may appear inside the mouth before a red, raised rash develops, typically beginning on the face and spreading outward.
Because the virus can linger in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours, early identification of potential exposure sites helps medical staff take protective measures and reduces the risk of further spread.
Steps to take if you think you were exposed
If you visited either location during the specified times, contact the health agency right away. Staff will assess your risk and advise whether you should monitor for symptoms, seek testing, or receive post‑exposure prophylaxis such as the measles vaccine or immune globulin.
People who develop fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes, or a rash should stay home, avoid public places, and call a health‑care provider before seeking in‑person care. Calling ahead allows clinics and hospitals to prepare appropriate infection‑control precautions.
Community response and prevention
Local health officials stress that vaccination remains the most effective defense against measles. The measles‑mumps‑rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended for all children at 12‑15 months and a second dose at 4‑6 years, as well as for adults who lack documented immunity.
“We are working closely with the facilities to ensure they follow strict infection‑control protocols,” said a spokesperson for the Branch‑Hillsdale‑St. Joseph Community Health Agency. “Our priority is to protect the health of St. Joseph County residents while keeping our health‑care providers safe.”
The agency will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information becomes available. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through the agency’s website and local news outlets.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
