MAHOPAC, N.Y. – Health officials in Putnam County have issued a public health alert after a confirmed case of measles was linked to a recent visit at a well-known restaurant in the Hudson Valley. Authorities are urging anyone who may have been at the location during a specific time window to contact the health department immediately, as they may have been exposed to the highly contagious virus.
Confirmed Measles Case in Putnam County
According to the Putnam County Department of Health, a man who recently tested positive for measles visited Arturo’s Tavern, a popular Italian restaurant located at 878 Route 6 in Mahopac, while he was contagious.
Though the individual is no longer contagious, officials have confirmed he was capable of spreading the virus during his time at the restaurant. The infected person had recently returned from international travel, where it’s believed he contracted the virus.
Health officials are now working to identify and notify individuals who may have been exposed during the critical period to help prevent further spread of the disease.
When and Where Exposure May Have Occurred
The possible public exposure occurred on:
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Wednesday, May 28, 2025
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Between 6:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m.
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At Arturo’s Tavern, Mahopac, NY
Anyone who dined or worked at the restaurant during that time frame is urged to call the Putnam County Health Department at 845-808-1390 and ask to speak with a nurse. Immediate consultation is recommended, especially for those who are unvaccinated, immunocompromised, pregnant, or unsure of their vaccination status.
A Serious and Contagious Virus
“Measles is a serious, highly contagious disease that can spread through the air by coughing or sneezing. In rare cases, it can be deadly,” stated the Putnam County Department of Health in an official release.
Measles is caused by a virus that spreads easily among unvaccinated individuals. According to the CDC, one infected person can spread the disease to up to 90% of nearby people who are not immune. The virus can linger in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours after the infected person leaves.
Symptoms and Timeline
Measles symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure and begin with:
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High fever
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Runny nose
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Cough
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Red, watery eyes
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Sore throat
A few days later, a distinctive rash appears, starting at the head and gradually spreading downward across the body. Infected individuals can transmit the virus from four days before to four days after the rash appears.
Restaurant Response and Cooperation
The management of Arturo’s Tavern is fully cooperating with public health officials in their investigation. The restaurant is known for its traditional Italian dishes and signature martinis, drawing both locals and visitors from around the region.
“The owner and staff at Arturo’s Tavern have assisted in every way possible to help identify any additional exposures. They share our priority—to ensure the health and safety of our Putnam residents and guests,” said Rian Rodriguez, Director of the Putnam County Department of Health.
Public Urged to Remain Alert
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of routine vaccinations, particularly the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella), which provides safe and effective protection.
If you or a loved one were at Arturo’s Tavern during the exposure window, or if you develop symptoms in the coming days, seek medical attention immediately and inform your provider about the potential exposure before arriving in person.
For ongoing updates and accurate information, residents are encouraged to follow the Putnam County Department of Health and stay tuned to trusted local news sources.
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