A traveler with measles may have exposed people at Los Angeles International Airport and a nearby hotel after arriving in the county earlier this month, health officials reported Wednesday.
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health confirmed the case, which involved a traveler arriving on Cathay Pacific flight CX884 on June 11. This person contracted measles while in Los Angeles County and potentially infected others at the airport and the Hilton Los Angeles Airport hotel.
This marks the sixth reported case of measles in Los Angeles County this year. As summer travel increases and the area prepares for FIFA World Cup events, health officials warn that the risk of spread could rise.
Health authorities stated that anyone at the Tom Bradley International Terminal between 10 a.m. and noon on June 11 might have been exposed. Additionally, there’s a potential outbreak at the Hilton hotel between 11:15 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. on the same day.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is collaborating with local officials to alert passengers seated near the infected traveler on the international flight.
Individuals who were present at either location during those times could develop symptoms within 7 to 21 days post-exposure, with the last day to monitor for symptoms being July 2.
Los Angeles County Health Officer Dr. Muntu Davis emphasized the importance of vaccinations as measles cases rise. “The MMR vaccine is the safest and most reliable way to prevent measles and protect yourself, your family, and your community,” he stated.
Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, followed by a rash that typically begins on the face and spreads to other areas of the body.
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health was contacted for further remarks, but no response was received.
