Measles case identified in traveler at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport

SEATTLE — A measles case has been identified in a traveler who passed through Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, health officials said Friday.

SEE ALSO | Snohomish County measles outbreak grows, latest case linked to Mukilteo church

The individual was at the airport from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Jan. 22, 2026.

During that time, the traveler was in A Concourse near Gate A12, traveled to the International Arrivals Hall at baggage claim 22, and exited the airport on the lower level of baggage claim at the south end of the main terminal.

Health officials said people who are vaccinated are very well protected against measles.

Anyone who was at those locations during the listed times and is not immune to measles could develop symptoms between Jan. 29 and Feb. 12, 2026, which is the most likely window for illness following exposure.

The case was reported on Feb. 12, 2026.

Health officials also noted that Snohomish County is currently experiencing a measles outbreak.

The Snohomish County Health Department confirmed three additional measles cases since declaring an outbreak two weeks ago, bringing the total number of cases in the county to six, on Wednesday.

What to do if you were in a potential location with measles exposure:

• Find out if you have been vaccinated for measles or have had measles previously. If you’re unsure about your immunity to measles, start by checking your vaccination records to see if you received the MMR vaccine.
• If you were tested for measles in the past, try to locate the lab results. If you don’t have records of either vaccination or a blood test confirming immunity, it’s recommended that you get vaccinated with the MMR vaccine. There is no harm in receiving another dose, even if you were previously vaccinated but don’t have documentation.
• Snohomish County residents can check with local pharmacies and clinics about vaccination availability. In Washington state, children under age 19 can be vaccinated for free, and most insurance plans, including Medicare Part B, cover the cost for adults.
• If you were born after 1956, are unimmunized, and have never had measles, you should quarantine for 21 days after exposure.
• Call a healthcare provider promptly if you develop an illness with fever or an unexplained rash.
• To avoid possibly spreading measles to others, do not go to a clinic or hospital without calling first to tell them you want to be checked for measles after an exposure.