Patrons at the Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino in Maricopa, Arizona. Photo from Facebook
Health authorities have confirmed an outbreak of measles in Arizona and they say the casino owned by the Ak-Chin Indian Community was exposed to the highly contagious virus. According to the Arizona Department of Health Services, the Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino was exposed to measles from about 6pm on May 21 through about 2am on May 22. The tribe confirmed it was a guest at the facility. "We are following the recommendations of the health department," the tribe said on Facebook. According to the department, anyone who develops a fever and rash should contact their health provider or go to an emergency room. Symptoms can develop within 7 to 12 days of exposure but they also might take up to 21 days. "This is an evolving situation, and given how contagious measles is, public health will continue to update our communities on places of potential exposure," Dr. Cara Christ, the director of the department, said in a press release. "People who have a rash and fever must call their healthcare provider or emergency department before going to let them know they may have measles. This is vital to help stop the further spread of the disease." People who received the measles vaccine or the MMR vaccine are typically immune to measles. Get the Story:
More measles cases reported in Pinal (AP 5/31)
Officials: Two cases of measles confirmed in Arizona (ABC15 5/26)
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