SEATTLE — A new confirmed measles case in a traveler who passed through Seattle-Tacoma International Airport on Monday is not connected to any previous local measles cases, Public Health Seattle & King County officials said Friday.
The infected person was at the airport before getting a diagnosis, was unvaccinated, and is a resident of Arizona, an area with an active measles outbreak, health officials confirmed.
The virus can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves, according to King County health officials.
Those exposed at the airport on Oct. 13 may develop symptoms between Oct. 20 and Nov. 3 , health officials said.
There have now been 12 cases of measles statewide this year, according to Public Health – Seattle & King County.
READ MORE: 2 more confirmed measles cases reported in King County
The county has responded to three other measles cases this year among people who traveled through King County but are not Washington state residents, officials said.
Dr. Sandra J. Valenciano, Health Officer for Public Health – Seattle & King County, highlighted a national resurgence: “In the U.S., we are experiencing a significant measles resurgence. Nationally, there have been over 1,500 cases reported so far this year—five times more cases than last year.”
The measles vaccine, she noted, is highly effective, providing about 97% protection with two doses.
Measles is highly contagious, spreading through the air via coughs or sneezes, and can lead to severe complications.
Public Health advises those at high risk, including young children, adults over 20, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems, to contact healthcare providers if exposed.
The MMR vaccine remains the best preventive measure.
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