Washington: Two measles cases confirmed in Snohomish County
According to the Snohomish County Health Department, at least two confirmed incidents of local residents being exposed to measles.
This is following a confirmed measles case in an adult who traveled through Seattle-Tacoma International Airport on January 10, 2025, while infectious.
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. 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.
If a person has received the recommended two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine (MMR), the CDC reports the vaccine is 97 percent effective against infection.
Measles spreads through the air and is highly contagious. If an unvaccinated person shares airspace with someone who has been infected, there is a 9 out of 10 chance that they can also become infected. Measles has a characteristic rash, it is red and flat, first appearing on the face. An infected person can spread the disease beginning four days before the rash appears. Measles symptoms can begin between 7 and 21 days after exposure and often a fever and cough are the first signs someone has been infected.
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“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” says Dr. James Lewis, Health Officer for Snohomish County. “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.”
Groups who are most likely to experience severe symptoms include children under age 5, pregnant people, and people with weakened immune systems or underlying chronic conditions. If you are concerned you have been exposed and you have symptoms, reach out to your provider.