Health authorities in Nassau County are warning the public about a potential measles exposure linked to a restaurant in Roslyn Heights.
The Nassau County Health Department confirmed that a New York City resident who tested positive for measles may have exposed patrons at the 388 Italian Restaurant on May 3 between 7:15 and 10 p.m.
Officials said that timeframe represents the period when the infected individual was inside the restaurant. The department is urging anyone who was there during those hours to be vigilant for symptoms.
People who suspect they were exposed or who develop possible measles symptoms are advised to contact their health care provider, local clinic, or emergency department before going in person to prevent further spread.
The department also reiterated the importance of vaccination, emphasizing that immunization remains the safest way to prevent measles.
According to the department, individuals born before 1957, those who have received two doses of the MMR vaccine, anyone who has previously had measles, or those with a lab test confirming immunity are considered protected.
More details about measles symptoms and prevention are available on the state Department of Health website.
Pediatrician Dr. Jennifer Gallub told reporters that while concern is warranted, the situation does not call for alarm. “I do think there's a cause to be concerned,” Gallub said.
“I don't think it's time to panic.”
Gallub described measles as extremely contagious, noting it spreads through the air and can remain airborne for up to two hours after an infected person has left an area.
“We rely on our vaccination of eligible patients to keep the transmission at a minimum,” she said. “We need to improve the rates of our immunizations of our children and our community to protect vulnerable parts of our population.”
She also acknowledged that vaccine hesitancy has increased since the COVID pandemic and encouraged individuals to watch for symptoms such as cough, runny nose, high fever, pink eye, or rash.
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In a public statement, the 388 Italian Restaurant confirmed it was informed of the situation and emphasized its commitment to safety and transparency.
“388 Restaurant was recently notified that a guest who dined with us on Sunday, May 3rd subsequently reported a case of measles to the CDC,” the restaurant said.
“We take the health and well-being of our guests and our team with the utmost seriousness, and we want to be fully transparent with our community.”
The restaurant noted that measles spreads via airborne respiratory droplets, not through food, and that health authorities have confirmed the virus is no longer viable indoors within two hours.
The statement added that 388 conducts thorough professional cleanings each night, ensuring that any environmental exposure from May 3 was managed before reopening the next morning.
Restaurant management said no additional cases have been linked to the establishment and that they have been cooperating proactively with the Nassau County Department of Health.
388 reiterated its dedication to maintaining high standards of hospitality, cleanliness, and safety, and encouraged any concerned patrons to consult their healthcare providers or reach out to county health officials.
Measles outbreaks have been happening everywhere, CBS reported one such outbreak at a restaurant in Manhattan.
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