Measles case found at SFO just days before the World Cup begins

Measles Exposure at San Francisco Airport

Travelers passing through the often-busy international terminal at San Francisco Airport might have come into contact with the highly contagious measles virus just days before the World Cup, according to a statement from the Santa Clara County Public Health Department.

The warning noted that an individual with measles traveled through various parts of SFO on June 8. This included the international terminal, passport control, customs, and baggage claim, between 8:30 and 11 a.m. The same person also visited two markets in San Jose later that day: Trader Joe’s and International Halal Market, during the evening hours.

Measles, which is a respiratory illness, can spread through airborne particles. It’s alarming how contagious this virus is—up to 90% of unprotected individuals can contract it. Even after an infected person leaves, the virus can linger in the area for up to two hours, making those unvaccinated particularly vulnerable, as highlighted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Dr. Sarah Rudman, the public health officer in Santa Clara County, emphasized in a video that anyone not vaccinated or who hasn’t had measles should be cautious if they were in those locations during the specified times.

“We want to ensure that anyone in these places at these times knows how to protect themselves and those around them,” she said.

Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious disease expert at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, mentioned that health departments are closely monitoring cities that are hosting World Cup events, keeping an eye out for potential disease outbreaks that could spread as fans and teams travel.

“With the World Cup on the horizon, we really have to be vigilant. Measles is at the top of the list of concerns,” Schaffner stated.

The symptoms of measles include a distinct rash, fever, and headaches. It can be severe, with hospitalization required for one in five unvaccinated cases. Those who haven’t been vaccinated may have a chance for protection through vaccination within 72 hours of exposure or via immunoglobulin, which offers short-term immunity. Statistics show that among every 1,000 children infected with measles, one to three may die from related complications.

Typically, measles has an incubation period of eight to 14 days, but in some instances, it can take up to 21 days. Dr. Matt Willis, a former public health officer in Marin County, noted that due to this lengthy incubation, it could take up to 42 days for health officials to confirm no further infections occurred. However, he added that if no new cases arise in the next 21 days, it’s likely that the spread will be contained.

“It can be quite nerve-wracking, especially when so many people in the community might have been exposed,” he said.

While there is no cure for measles, two doses of the vaccine have proven to be very effective, offering 97% protection against the illness.

Willis also pointed out that Santa Clara’s high vaccination rate is likely to help prevent the virus from spreading. Still, with a noted rise in measles outbreaks throughout the country this year, California hasn’t been spared.