The New York State Department of Health announced today that low levels of the measles virus were detected in a wastewater sample from the City of Oswego. This sample was collected from a treatment facility that serves parts of the city, SUNY Oswego, and nearby areas. Currently, no cases of measles have been reported.
A positive wastewater test shows that someone in Oswego County recently had measles, but it doesn't mean there's an outbreak. Wastewater monitoring acts as an early warning system that can detect signs of a virus before any local cases are confirmed.
The Department of Health, the Oswego County Health Department, SUNY Oswego, and local health providers are collaborating to monitor the situation. Additional testing is in progress, and healthcare providers have been notified to stay alert.
Everyone is encouraged to make sure they are protected against measles. The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella) is the most effective defense; two doses provide approximately 97 percent effectiveness. Those who are unsure of their vaccination status should contact their health care provider.
It's also important to recognize symptoms. Measles usually starts with fever, cough, runny nose, and red or watery eyes. A rash often appears a few days later, beginning on the face and spreading to the rest of the body. The rash may be accompanied by a fever that can spike above 104°F. Anyone with these symptoms should call ahead before visiting a clinic, urgent care, or emergency room so staff can take proper precautions.
Measles spreads easily through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and the virus can stay in the air for up to two hours. Even a single case can quickly spread among unvaccinated individuals. A person with measles can transmit the virus to others beginning four days before the rash appears and until four days afterward. The incubation period for measles is typically 7–14 days, but symptoms can appear up to 21 days after exposure.
This alert is precautionary. No measles cases have been reported in Oswego County at this time. Staying current with vaccinations and being aware of symptoms are the best ways to protect yourself and our university community.
For more information about measles and vaccines, visit the New York State Department of Health Measles Resource Page.
The university’s Health Services are available to students with questions or concerns about measles. Their website lists local resources accessible to the entire university community.
Thank you for helping to keep our university community safe.