A theme park is a wonderful place, full of all the joys you could ever ask for. Fast rides, amazing food, and... harmful diseases?
Well, of course, not all theme parks. But one had to deal with a pretty scary incident recently. According to the New York Post, visitors to Universal Studios Hollywood have been advised to get themselves checked.
That's because it's been found out that a guest, who was infected with measles, spent 11 hours in the park. Yes, that includes peak hours.
Health officials issued an urgent warning on Wednesday, August 5. They say that anyone who visited the theme park on Sunday, August 2, between 10am and 9pm, is at risk.
Muntu Davis, the county public health officer in the area where Universal Studios is located, released a statement about the disease. "With summer travel underway, the risk of exposure to infectious diseases may increase.2
"We urge everyone to confirm their immunity and get the MMR vaccine if needed, especially before traveling and attending crowded events."
Officials went on to clarify that people who are susceptible to the disease, and attended the park could develop symptoms in a 7 to 21 day window following the initial exposure.
"These individuals should confirm their protection against measles," the department explained. "Those who have had [the disease] in the past or received the recommended measles vaccine are likely protected but should still monitor for symptoms."
Videos by Wide Open Country
What is Measles? Is It a Dangerous Disease?
Measles is most well known for being a common childhood illness in the past. It's characterized by a blotchy rash that first starts in the face, before spreading to other parts of the body.
Other symptoms of the disease include a fever up to 105F, a dry cough, a runny nose, and conjunctivitis. Measles can spread very easily.
However, in case you're worried, the vast majority of people were injected with the MMR vaccine as a baby. The vaccine covers against mumps, measles, and rubella - meaning you'd likely be safe if you came into contact with it.
Either way, this is quite a troubling bit of news. We hope that everyone stays safe.
