The Orange County Health Department has been recognized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for playing an integral role in ending the nearly year-long measles outbreak in the County last month. Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by a virus that is spread by direct contact with nasal or throat secretions of infected people.
The measles outbreak in Orange County began in November of last year and concluded in August. Fifty-seven residents were infected with the disease. The Health Department’s Epidemiology, Nursing and Emergency Preparedness divisions, along with Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) Unit volunteers, worked diligently to respond to public inquiry, to notify health care facilities and residents, to provide education and training, and to collaborate with medical providers, schools and local stakeholders.
Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus said, “I’m proud of the great work that Dr. Gelman and her dedicated staff continue to perform throughout Orange County. Helping end the nearly year-long measles outbreak illustrates how dedicated they are to serving our municipalities and residents. The single best way to prevent measles is to be vaccinated and we encourage all residents to stay up to date with their vaccinations.”
