Is Measles on Rise Again? Possible Exposure at US Airport Alert

United States: Following an adult measles case in Seattle Public Health authorities, the Snohomish County Health Department identified two separate patients.

More about the news

SCHD staff continues observing the health condition of people who were exposed to prevent measles transmission. Snohomish County Health Department required both patients to stay in their homes completely for protection and to wear face masks in public places.

The SCHD told both exposed individuals to stay at home for maximum safety and to wear masks when visiting public areas.

At least two Snohomish County residents exposed to measles after confirmed case at SEA Airport | https://t.co/vFTCPoLwUH https://t.co/NQYpZOaE7N

— Randolph Jones (@Randolp72789969) January 23, 2025

“If a person was at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport on January 10 between 2:30 pm and 8:00 pm, it is possible that they were exposed to measles,” SCHD stated in its released statement, as komonews.com reported.

“The infected person was in the S-Gate concourse, the D-Gate concourse, customs arrivals, and baggage claim. The most likely time frame a person would become sick if they were infected by this exposure is between January 17, 2025, and January 31, 2025,” the officials added.

What more are the officials stating?

The public health of Seattle & King County remains in minimal danger because many people are immunized.

If one visited affected areas during the listed times, you should take these actions. Determine if you received measles vaccination or survived a measles illness.

Stay current with the recommended number of measles MMR vaccines. See a doctor right away when you get a fever or spots show up unexpectedly.

Two people in Snohomish County sickened from measles exposure at SEA Airport https://t.co/vePWEU7PA3

— KIRO 7 (@KIRO7Seattle) January 22, 2025

Tell a medical facility ahead of time that you want a measles check following your exposure so you won’t transmit the illness to others. You must reduce your contact with people who have not built up measles protection.

According to Dr. James Lewis, Health Officer for Snohomish County, “We are most concerned about people who do not have immunity from vaccination, especially young children. Measles is highly contagious and, in severe cases, can cause very high fevers, pneumonia, and, although more rare, brain swelling, and even death,” komonews.com reported.

“As of this past December, measles was reported in 30 states, including Washington, and 80 percent of those cases were in people who did not have confirmed vaccination,” Lewis added.