Strong Memorial Hospital issues measles exposure warning

The Monroe County Department of Public Health has issued a warning regarding a potential measles exposure at Strong Memorial Hospital’s emergency department in Rochester, New York. An individual who later tested positive for measles visited the facility between 11 p.m. Monday and 2 a.m. Tuesday, potentially exposing nearly 100 people.

Health officials are contacting patients who were present during that timeframe and lack documented evidence of immunity. These individuals are advised to monitor for symptoms through September 28 and seek immediate medical attention if they become ill. Dr. Marielena Vélez de Brown, Monroe County’s public health commissioner, noted that the virus is highly contagious and can remain airborne for up to two hours after an infected person has left an area.

The warning comes amid rising measles cases across the Rochester-Finger Lakes region, including Steuben, Seneca, Ontario, and Yates counties. Officials are using the incident to urge the public to adhere to vaccination recommendations.