Health officials confirm measles case in Portland visitor

PORTLAND — Health officials say a visitor to Portland was infected with measles, potentially exposing people to the virus.

The Oregonian/OregonLive reports the Oregon Health Authority is working to notify people who may have come in contact with the traveler, who was in the Portland area from July 30 to Aug. 6.

The agency says the virus spreads easily to those who aren’t vaccinated, and people infected can spread it even before symptoms appear.

Symptoms include coughing, fever, runny nose and rash. It can cause ear and lung infections, diarrhea and brain swelling if not treated.

Officials expect symptoms to appear over the next two weeks in people who may have been recently infected.

Officials advise people who may be infected to call a doctor or emergency room before visiting those facilities.