Measles Exposure Alert Issued for Perry Steakhouse

The Georgia Department of Public Health is alerting the public to a possible measles exposure at a LongHorn Steakhouse in Perry, located at 100 Hampton Court. Officials say a contagious individual visited the restaurant on Oct. 7 between 7 and 10 p.m. The alert ties into an ongoing investigation surrounding a confirmed measles case in nearby Macon County, part of a broader cluster that has pushed Georgia's case count to 22, including an unvaccinated resident who recently tested positive. Anyone who was at the restaurant during that window is urged to review their vaccination history and watch for symptoms through Oct. 28, since the virus can take anywhere from seven to 21 days to appear after exposure. Early warning signs include high fever, cough, runny nose and watery eyes, often followed by a rash that starts on the head and spreads downward. Health officials stress that measles spreads easily through the air and can linger in a space up to two hours after an infected person leaves. Anyone developing symptoms is asked to call a healthcare provider before showing up in person, so facilities can prepare to prevent further spread. The MMR vaccine remains the most effective protection, with the CDC recommending two doses for children and at least one for most adults born in 1957 or later.