Riley Hospital for Children to begin screening patients, visitors for measles Nov. 2
INDIANAPOLIS – Riley Hospital for Children will begin screening for measles at hospital entrances beginning Nov. 2 as an added precaution to protect patients, visitors and team members.
Measles is a highly contagious airborne illness that can pose serious health risks, particularly for infants and children who are immunocompromised and those who are not yet eligible for vaccination. As a hospital caring for some of the most vulnerable children, the enhanced screening process is meant to provide an additional layer of protection for patients, families and team members.
All patients and visitors will be asked brief questions about possible measles symptoms and exposure when entering the hospital. Patients with scheduled appointments should allow a few extra minutes when arriving.
Families who believe their child may have measles or may have been exposed should call their healthcare provider before arriving, when possible. Calling ahead allows the care team to make appropriate arrangements and precautions before you arrive. Anyone experiencing symptoms or who believes they may have been exposed should notify a team member immediately upon arrival.
“These additional precautions are about protecting our patients and families while continuing to provide the best care for our patients,” said Dr. Samina Bhumbra, medical director of infection prevention at Riley Children’s. “We are committed to providing the safest possible environment for the children and families we serve.”
Measles spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes and can remain in the air for up to 2 hours even after an infected person leaves the space. Symptoms can include fever, cough, runny nose, red or watery eyes, and a rash. The best way to protect against measles is with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Community vaccination helps protect individuals while also reducing the opportunity for measles to spread.
Community members should look to trusted public health and healthcare sources for current guidance.
For information about measles cases, exposures, vaccination and prevention, visit:
- Indiana Department of Health
- American Academy of Pediatrics
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Your healthcare provider
The temporary screening will remain in place as community measles activity is monitored.
