In a troubling development, a juvenile in Anchorage has tested positive for measles, a highly contagious virus that can be prevented through vaccination. The Anchorage Health Department issued a warning on Thursday after confirming the case.

Described as an unvaccinated minor, this individual visited multiple public sites in Anchorage while potentially contagious, raising alarms about possible wider community exposure. Health officials have emphasized the risk posed to those who are not immune to the virus.

Where Were You Exposed?

If you were at any of the following locations, you might have been at risk of exposure to measles:

• O’Malley Sports Center/Fly Trampoline Park at 11051 O’Malley Centre Drive on May 10, between 2 PM and 6 PM.

• Target at 150 W. 100th Ave. on May 11, between 4 PM and 8 PM.

• The YMCA at 5353 Lake Otis Parkway on May 12, between 6 AM and 9 AM.

The minor tested positive on Wednesday, but details on how the infection was contracted or the individual's age remain unclear.

Symptoms to Watch For!

Health officials warn that if you were exposed and are not immune, symptoms could develop between May 17 and June 2. Measles symptoms include a high fever, cough, runny nose, a rash that typically begins on the face and spreads to the chest and back, and red, watery eyes. This highly contagious respiratory illness can be dangerous, especially for young children.

Vaccination Rates Offer Some Hope

Fortunately, most children in Alaska are vaccinated against measles. As of last year, around 79% of children aged 19 to 35 months received their first dose of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine, and 83% of kids aged 5 to 18 years are fully vaccinated with two doses.

However, this year, the United States has seen an alarming uptick in measles cases, with over 1,000 documented incidents and three fatalities reported through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Alaska has remained relatively spared, with fewer than 10 cases recorded this year as of May 15.

Stay Informed and Stay Safe!

As this situation unfolds, health officials are encouraging everyone to check their vaccination status and be mindful of symptoms. Protect yourself and your loved ones by staying informed! Fear of measles can spread quickly, but so can the solution—get vaccinated!