Health officials warn of possible measles exposure at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport

SEATTLE – Health officials are warning of possible exposure to measles at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) last week. Seattle and King County public health officials are investigating and saying a male child was diagnosed with the disease as he walked through the airport on November 5.

Authorities believe the child likely contracted the disease will travel outside the United States Before he is diagnosed with measles, officials said the child was at the north gate of the N-satellite. SEA 11 and Baggage Claim Carousel 13 between 10 p.m. and 12:30 a.m. on November 5. .

“Measles outbreaks continue to circulate in many parts of the world. As long as people travel, no community is safe from the introduction of measles, ”Jeff Duchin, public health official – Seattle and King County said in a statement. If you are not sure that you are up to date with the recommended doses of measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, see your health care provider and get a dose of MMR if needed.

“During our COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to stay up to date on all scheduled vaccinations for children, so as not to lose important community protections against other serious infections,” said Duchin.

Measles can happen before people notice a rash and can stay airborne for up to two hours before the infected person leaves the area. Symptoms include fever, a rash cough, and red, watery eyes. King County health officials advise those in the same places as the child to:

• Check if they are vaccinated against measles with the recommended number of MMR vaccines
• Call a healthcare practitioner immediately if symptoms of illness such as fever or unexplained rash appear.
• To avoid the spread, do not go to a clinic or hospital without warning of the symptoms.
• Vaccination or medication can be given after exposure, but authorities recommend consulting your healthcare professional first.

King County health officials say the risk to the general public is low as many people in the area are vaccinated. Nonetheless, health officials warn that if someone is not up to date on the MMR vaccine and may have been exposed, it is important to contact a health care provider.