Potential Measles Exposure in Seattle Area
SEATTLE — Public Health – Seattle and King County has issued a warning after a traveler from Canada visited several locations in King and Snohomish counties while being infectious with measles.
The individual was in western Washington from April 30 to May 3, during which time they frequented various public spots in Renton, Bellevue, Seattle, Everett, and Woodinville before receiving a diagnosis.
Health officials have not disclosed the person’s vaccination status, and this incident does not relate to any earlier local measles cases. It’s worth noting that measles can be transmitted before the rash appears, which means individuals may unknowingly spread the virus.
The health department provides a list of 16 locations that the traveler visited, detailing the times they were present, which includes an additional two hours after their departure, as the virus can linger in the air during that time.
While most residents in western Washington are vaccinated and immune, anyone who was in those places during the specified times and isn’t immune is likely to become sick between May 7 and May 24.
“We are seeing a significant resurgence of measles both globally and in the U.S. With over 1,000 reported cases so far this year, 2025 may have the highest number of cases since the early 1990s,” stated Meagan Kay, a Medical Epidemiologist for Public Health – Seattle and King County. “This is a crucial time to check your vaccination status and get immunized if you’re not already protected.”
Understanding Measles
Measles is an extremely contagious respiratory illness that spreads easily through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or breathes. Symptoms often include fever, rash, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes.
If a person has measles, Public Health officials caution that up to 90% of unprotected individuals nearby may also contract the virus.
Symptoms can manifest anywhere from 7 to 21 days following exposure. The virus is contagious from about four days before a rash appears until four days after it surfaces.
There is no specific treatment for measles; thus, doctors primarily focus on mitigating the symptoms and preventing complications.
Can Measles Be Fatal?
While fatal cases are rare, they can occur.
Common complications include ear infections and diarrhea, and about 1 in 5 unvaccinated individuals may require hospitalization due to measles, according to the CDC. Pregnant women who haven’t been vaccinated risk premature birth or low birth weight.
Among children, about 1 in 20 may develop pneumonia, and one in every 1,000 may experience encephalitis, swelling of the brain that can cause seizures, hearing loss, or intellectual disability.
Preventing Measles
The most effective way to prevent measles is through the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. The first dose is recommended for children aged 12 to 15 months, with a second dose between ages 4 and 6.
This vaccine has a long track record of safety and effectiveness.
Vaccination rates have dropped nationally since the COVID-19 pandemic, with many states falling below the 95% threshold required to shield communities from measles outbreaks.
Do You Need a Booster Shot?
Healthcare professionals sometimes undergo antibody testing and may receive boosters as needed, even if they’ve already had the standard two doses. Health officials suggest that individuals at high risk who were vaccinated many years ago might consider boosters, particularly if they reside in outbreak areas or live with someone infected with measles.
For more details and frequently asked questions about measles, you can visit the Public Health – Seattle and King County website.
