A child from the New Orleans area has been hospitalized after contracting measles during international travel, Louisiana health officials said Wednesday. It’s the first case of the virus reported in Louisiana this year.
The pediatric patient was partially vaccinated and is receiving treatment in isolation, according to the Louisiana Health Department. Officials said the child might have exposed others to the measles Friday at the Target and Walmart Supercenter locations in Kenner. Anyone who believes they were exposed should contact their doctor and their regional epidemiologist with the Louisiana Department of Health for additional guidance.
Measles is highly contagious, with 90% of unvaccinated individuals getting infected if they are exposed. The virus is particularly dangerous for babies, young children, pregnant women and those with compromised immune systems…