SNOHOMISH COUNTY, Wash. — Health officials are closely monitoring the symptoms of two people from Snohomish County who were exposed to measles while traveling through SEA Airport earlier this month.
“It’s likely they have immunity and we just need to verify it. We’re not enforcing a strict quarantine. We are recommending they limit activities as much as possible,” said Snohomish County Health Officer Dr. James Lewis.
According to Public Health—Seattle & King County, the infected traveler is an adult from Alaska who was likely exposed to measles while traveling abroad.
They say the exposure at SEA happened on January 10 between 2:30 p.m. and 8 p.m.
The infected traveler arrived at Gate S8, went through customs, and then made their way to baggage claim at Carousel 21. They then connected for a flight at Gate D7.
Lewis says it’s likely many others at the airport that day were exposed.
“It’s extremely airborne and has a very low infectious dose – a very small amount of virus can cause an infection in an individual who’s susceptible,” said Lewis. “Traveling internationally when you’re not up to date on your immunizations is what really introduces the risk.”
Lewis says measles can start with a rash, cough, and fever and can quickly cause serious health concerns, especially for little kids, pregnant women and older adults.
“This highlights the need for people to make sure they’re keeping track of their immune records. Anybody who was in the airport that day should verify they’re immune to measles,” said Lewis.
If you were at the locations at the times listed above and are not immune to measles, the most likely time you would become sick would be between January 17, 2025 and January 31, 2025, according to health officials.
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