Measles case identified in Snohomish County infant after international travel

A new positive measles case was identified in an infant in Snohomish County, according to the Snohomish County Health Department.

The department believes the child was likely exposed to measles during recent travel abroad.

“Our thoughts are with the child and their family, and we sincerely hope for a full and speedy recovery,” Dr. James Lewis, Health Officer for the Snohomish County Health Department, said. “Measles is a serious and highly contagious disease, and young children—especially those who are too young to be vaccinated—are particularly vulnerable to its complications. Vaccination remains our best protection against measles.”

The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine has an approximate 97% protection against measles with lifelong immunization.

Locations of potential exposure to the public

People who were at certain locations in Snohomish and King counties where the infant and her family were could have been exposed to measles.

The family was at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) on March 27 from 10:45 a.m. to 2 p.m. They were at the S Concourse, international arrivals, carousel 20 for baggage claim, and the Gina Marie Arrivals Hall.

On March 29, the family was at the Providence Monroe Clinic, located at 19200 N. Kelsey Street in Monroe. The family was at the clinic from 6:25 p.m. to 10 p.m. Two days later, the infant carrying measles was at the Providence Mill Creek Walk-In Care in Everett from 8:55 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., including the Washington Medical Group Endoscopy clinic and the Providence Mill Creek Lobby Café.

Later that day, March 31, they were at Seattle Children’s Hospital Forest pharmacy and B lobby in Seattle.

If anyone was at these locations during these specific windows, call a healthcare provider promptly if an illness with fever develops, or an unexplained rash forms. The most likely time to become sick from this case of measles would be between April 3 and April 21.

How many measles cases have been found in WA?

This is the second case of measles in an infant, and the third case overall, in Washington since Jan. 1.

“We urge everyone, especially those who spend time around young kids, to ensure they are immune, both to protect themselves and to shield those who are most at risk,” Lewis said. “If you’re planning international travel, it’s also important to speak with your healthcare provider about what vaccines may be needed for you and your family to stay healthy and protected while abroad.”

What is measles?

Measles is a highly contagious and potentially severe disease that can cause fevers, rashes, coughs, runny noses, and red, watery eyes. If one person is infected with measles, approximately nine out of 10 people nearby would become infected if they are not protected or vaccinated. Measles typically spreads through the air after a person with measles coughs or sneezes.

“Measles is spreading around the U.S. and world. Vaccination is the most effective way to protect our children, not only from serious diseases like measles, but also to ensure they can attend school safely,” Elysia Gonzales, medical epidemiologist for Public Health – Seattle & King County, stated. “If you haven’t gotten around to taking your child in for vaccination, make an appointment with your child’s provider. In Washington State, all children under age 19 can get vaccines for free.”

Measles can lead to ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, and even encephalitis (brain inflammation), which can be fatal.

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