The first case of measles in Nassau County in two years was reported today to the Nassau County Department of Health in a 39-year-old Great Neck man who is currently recovering at home.

The Nassau County Department of Health is advising the following individuals that they may have been exposed to measles:

All household members and other individuals who were in close contact with the patient were notified directly.

Individuals who have had two measles vaccinations or those with physician-diagnosed measles are immune. Pregnant women who may have been exposed should consult with their physicians.

Any individual who comes down with the symptoms of measles is strongly advised to remain at home and notify their health care provider BEFORE going to a doctor's office or an emergency room. The health care provider will want to make special arrangements to avoid contact with other patients or staff.

The symptoms of measles, which is a highly contagious disease, generally appear in two stages: In the first stage, the individual many have a runny nose, cough and a slight fever. The eyes may become reddened and sensitive to light while the fever consistently rises each day. The second stage begins on the third to seventh day and consists of a temperature of 103-105 F, and a red blotchy rash lasting four to seven days. The rash usually begins on the face and then spreads over the entire body. Koplik spots (little white spots) may also appear on the gums and inside of the cheeks.