Measles Cases Confirmed in King County
SEATTLE — King County has reported two new cases of measles, confirmed by Public Health – Seattle & King County. The affected individuals include a child and an adult family member.
According to health officials, both reside in the same household and traveled to various locations in the county while being contagious.
It appears they were exposed while hosting an international visitor who later reported feeling unwell. Public Health stated that the visitor has left the county, leaving their measles status uncertain.
The child has received one dose of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine, but the adult’s vaccination status is currently unknown.
Officials clarified that these new cases are unrelated to previous measles cases reported in the area. Currently, there have been 10 confirmed measles cases in Washington state.
“With an increase in measles cases both globally and in the U.S., it’s crucial to ensure your vaccinations are up to date if you plan to travel,” noted Meagan Kay, a medical epidemiologist with Public Health – Seattle & King County. “The CDC now advises anyone traveling internationally to be fully vaccinated against measles well before their trip.”
“Vaccination will not only help protect you but also reduce the likelihood of spreading it to others if you do contract measles,” Kay added. “It’s advisable to get vaccinated at least two weeks prior to your trip to allow your body time to build immunity.”
Potential Exposure Locations
Health officials warned that measles can spread even before individuals realize they have it or show symptoms.
The individuals with measles visited the following public locations:
- June 14, 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. – Bellevue Fire Station 9
- June 15, 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. – St. Madeleine Sophie Catholic Parish
- June 15, 2-5 p.m. – Lake Union Swim Academy
- June 18, 1-4 p.m. – Mary Wayte Pool
- June 18, 2:30-5:30 p.m. – Costco Issaquah
- June 19, 1:20-4:20 p.m. – Overlake Clinics Newcastle Urgent Care
- June 20, 11:50 a.m.-2 p.m. – Seattle Children’s Hospital, Forest B parking garage, level 1 lobby, and pharmacy
- June 20, 12-2:05 p.m. – Emergency department lobby at Seattle Children’s Hospital
- June 20, 3:40-5:45 p.m. – Emergency department at Seattle Children’s Hospital
What to Do If You Were Exposed
Fortunately, most residents in western Washington are immune to measles through vaccination, which means the overall public risk remains low.
If you were present at any of the listed locations during the specified times, it’s essential to check your MMR vaccination records.
If you develop symptoms such as a fever or an unexplained rash, you should contact a healthcare provider right away. It’s advisable to call ahead before visiting a clinic or hospital to minimize contact with others, especially those who may not be immune.
Anyone who is unvaccinated and was at these locations during the listed times could potentially become ill between June 21 and July 13.
Those with weakened immune systems may develop symptoms outside of this timeframe.
Understanding Measles
Measles is an extremely contagious disease that can be severe, leading to symptoms such as fever, rash, cough, runny nose, and red eyes. Approximately 90% of individuals who are not vaccinated will contract the disease if exposed.
The illness can be transmitted from four days before the rash appears until four days after. The incubation period typically ranges from seven to 14 days, and sometimes longer.
Complications may arise, particularly for infants, young children, adults over 20, pregnant individuals, and those with compromised immune systems. Vaccination remains the most effective method to prevent measles.
Providence Swedish advocates for everyone to receive the safe and effective MMR vaccine. According to CDC guidelines, two doses of the vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles and offering enduring protection.
