The Tennessee Department of Health has confirmed two cases of measles in Middle Tennessee, marking the first reported cases in the state this year.
Both individuals are recovering at home. Health officials said one of the patients had been fully vaccinated against measles, while the vaccination status of the second person is unknown. Both were exposed to a confirmed measles case outside Tennessee.
The Tennessee Department of Health and the Nashville-Davidson County Health Department are notifying the public about possible exposures at several locations in Murfreesboro and Nashville.
People who visited the following locations during the listed times may have been exposed:
- Catfeine Cat Cafe — June 29 and June 30 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Monitor for symptoms through July 21.
- Waxing the City — July 1 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Monitor for symptoms through July 22.
- Goodwill — July 1 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Monitor for symptoms through July 22.
- Swett’s Restaurant — July 3 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Monitor for symptoms through July 24.
- Publix — July 3 from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monitor for symptoms through July 24.
- Dino’s Bar and Grill — July 4 from noon to 4 p.m. Monitor for symptoms through July 25.
- Limo Peruvian Eatery — July 4 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Monitor for symptoms through July 25.
- Paul’s Corner — July 4 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monitor for symptoms through July 25.
Health officials said people who were at these locations during the listed times could develop measles symptoms between seven and 21 days after exposure.
Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, red eyes, congestion and a red rash that typically begins on the face before spreading to the rest of the body. The disease spreads easily through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks.
People who have previously had measles or received the recommended measles vaccinations are likely protected, but health officials still recommend monitoring for symptoms. Individuals who are unvaccinated or unsure of their vaccination status face a higher risk of infection.
Anyone who develops symptoms should contact a healthcare provider before arriving for treatment to help reduce the risk of exposing others.
Additional information about measles and vaccination is available through the Tennessee Department of Health measles information page.
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