Seattle, Washington – The Public Health – Seattle & King County issued an alert after being notified that an adult with a confirmed case of infectious measles traveled through Seattle-Tacoma International Airport following their journey in Europe. This infection occurred as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention raised an alarm to public health officials about the growing number of measles cases in the United States in 2024, already matching the total from the previous year.
The infectious adult traveled through the international airport on May 10 and 11, with unclear vaccination status for measles. Health officials mentioned that the individual resided in Arizona and presumably contracted the disease during their trip to Europe. Specific countries visited by the individual were not disclosed.
Individuals who believe they may have been exposed at the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport were advised by health officials to check their vaccination status for measles and seek medical attention if they develop symptoms such as fever or a rash. The potential contagious period for those exposed was noted to be between May 17 and June 1, 2024. The CDC reported 58 confirmed measles cases across the U.S. linked to international travel, emphasizing the importance of updated MMR vaccinations to prevent further spread.
According to the CDC, measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis, particularly for unvaccinated individuals. The agency urged travelers to ensure they are up-to-date with their MMR vaccinations and advised healthcare providers to prioritize routine immunizations for children. The rise in measles cases globally, including in popular travel destinations like Austria, the Philippines, and the United Kingdom, highlights the importance of vaccination to prevent outbreaks.
In light of the ongoing measles outbreak, health officials in Seattle emphasized the need for public vigilance and adherence to vaccination guidelines. The CDC’s response team has been actively monitoring the situation and urging proactive measures to contain the spread of the infection. Staying informed and taking necessary precautions, such as staying up-to-date on vaccinations, is crucial to safeguarding public health against communicable diseases like measles.