Frankfort gym member frustrated after possible measles exposure

Possible exposure linked to Planet Fitness visit last week

FRANKFORT, Ky. (ABC 36 NEWS NOW) — Health officials are warning about a possible spread of measles in the Frankfort area after an infected person visited a popular gym last week.

For the first time in nearly two years, someone in Kentucky has tested positive for measles. Officials say that while infected, the person visited Planet Fitness in Frankfort at 101 Allen Way—10 days ago. Now, some gymgoers are hearing the news for the first time.

“I didn’t know anything about the measles outbreak until actually last night [Wednesday] when I saw it on the news,” said a Frankfort resident and gym member, Pastor Barry.

The state Department of Public Health says the adult from Frankfort was diagnosed after traveling internationally to an area with ongoing measles transmission. The disease is considered one of the most contagious viruses in the world.

Now, health officials are working to find anyone who may have been exposed. An employee at the Frankfort Planet Fitness told ABC 36 they are aware of the situation but are unable to comment. Meanwhile, one gym member is voicing frustrations after not being contacted about the situation.

“I feel like somebody had a responsibility, especially because of health and as much as I come here, to at least have given me a phone call, to tell me that there was a problem. Because the thing is I’ve been diagnosed with coronary heart failure, and anything, anything like this, if I get sick it could take my life,” said Barry.

Health officials say anyone at the Planet Fitness on Allen Way last Monday, February 17, from 9 a.m. until 12:15 p.m. could have been exposed. Barry says he was there that day and now plans to cancel his membership.

“I think I was in there that afternoon, around, I don’t know, 2 o’clock, 2:30, and looking by calendar I was in here maybe 5, 6 times since then.” “I don’t appreciate it very much, in fact not at all, and I think because of that they just lost my business,” said Barry.

Experts say early symptoms begin eight to twelve days after exposure and include a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes.

Planet Fitness did share a statement in response to the measles exposure.

“At Planet Fitness, the health of our members and team members is our top priority. We are committed to providing a clean and welcoming workout environment, and we have extensive cleanliness policies and procedures in place. Team members conduct regular and thorough cleaning of all equipment, surfaces, and areas of the club and gym floor using disinfectant cleaning supplies. In addition, they regularly complete overnight cleaning of the facility. For additional questions, please contact the local health department.”

ABC 36 has also reached out to the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services for more information and is awaiting their responses.