Measles Exposure Raises Concerns in Snohomish County
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The Snohomish County Health Department issued a warning on Tuesday after confirming that at least two individuals had been exposed to measles. This comes less than a week after Public Health – Seattle & King County announced a confirmed measles case in an adult who traveled through Sea-Tac airport while infectious. The department is actively monitoring those who may have been exposed and providing guidance on quarantine measures and symptom observation.
“We are most concerned about people who do not have immunity from vaccination, especially young children,” explains Dr. James Lewis, Health Officer for Snohomish County. “Measles is highly contagious, and in severe cases, it can cause very high fevers, pneumonia, and, although more rare, brain swelling and even death.” Dr. Lewis added, “As of last December, measles was reported in 30 states, including Washington, and 80% of those cases were in people who did not have confirmed vaccination.”
The exposed individuals have been advised to minimize contact wiht others and wear masks in public spaces,according to a spokesperson from the Snohomish County Health Department. The department has also identified specific areas of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport where the infected person was present on January 10th between 2:30 pm and 8:00 pm. These areas include the S-Gate concourse, the D-Gate concourse, customs arrivals, and baggage claim.
Anyone who was at the airport during this time may have been exposed to measles. It is indeed critically important to be aware of the symptoms, which typically include a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes.A rash frequently enough develops a few days after these initial symptoms.
If you believe you may have been exposed to measles, it’s crucial to contact your healthcare provider immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent serious complications.
Measles Exposure at Sea-Tac Airport Raises Concerns
A recent measles exposure at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (Sea-Tac) on January 10th, 2023, has prompted concerns about the spread of this highly contagious viral disease. Dr. Emily Hart, a renowned infectious disease specialist, sheds light on the situation and offers guidance on protecting yourself and others.
“Measles is a serious viral illness that, despite widespread vaccination efforts, continues to pose a threat, notably in developed countries like the United States,” explains Dr. Hart.”Before vaccines, nearly everyone contracted measles in childhood. While many recover, it can lead to severe complications like pneumonia and brain swelling.”
The Snohomish County Health Department has issued a public health alert, urging individuals who were at Sea-Tac Airport between 2:30 pm and 5:00 pm on January 10th to be vigilant.
If you were at the airport during this time, Dr. Hart recommends taking the following steps:
- Check your vaccination status: Determine if you have received the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine or have had measles in the past. Ensure your vaccinations are up to date.
- Contact your healthcare provider: If you develop a fever or unexplained rash, call your doctor immediately. Do not visit a clinic or hospital without first informing them of your potential exposure. Limit contact with others, particularly those who are not immune.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and prevention, measles outbreaks in the US could become increasingly frequent without adequate vaccination rates. Prioritizing immunization is crucial for protecting yourself, your loved ones, and the community at large.
Dr. Hart emphasizes the importance of staying informed and taking proactive measures to prevent the spread of measles. “Vaccination remains the most effective way to protect ourselves and others from this potentially risky disease,” she concludes.
Staying Safe: Combating Measles Outbreaks,one Vaccination At A Time
Measles,a highly contagious viral disease,continues to pose a serious threat,even in modern society. While a vaccine exists that offers robust protection, outbreaks persist, highlighting the importance of staying informed and proactively safeguarding ourselves.
If you suspect potential exposure, remain vigilant. Symptoms typically emerge within 10 to 12 days after contact,but the window ranges from 7 to 21 days.If a fever or unexplained rash develops, immediately consult your healthcare provider. Provide details about the potential exposure to guide their assessment.Remember, contacting your provider before visiting healthcare facilities helps minimize the risk of spreading infection further.
Meanwhile, minimize interactions with others, particularly those vulnerable to measles.
Airports, bustling hubs connecting people worldwide, can play a crucial role in preventing the spread of infectious diseases. Dr. Emily Hart, a leading public health expert, emphasizes the significance of airports actively raising awareness about measles and othre contagious illnesses through public announcements and visible signage.
Travellers, too, have a vital role to play. Dr.Hart stresses the importance of being up-to-date with recommended vaccinations, practicing meticulous hand hygiene, and wearing masks if feeling unwell. “Don’t travel until cleared by a healthcare professional” if experiencing symptoms or suspecting exposure, she advises.
Dr. Hart believes addressing vaccination hesitancy through clear interaction, accessible data, and open dialog is crucial to improving vaccination rates. Healthcare professionals, public officials, and educators must collaborate in disseminating accurate data and emphasizing vaccination’s paramount importance.
Furthermore, accessible and affordable vaccination programs can significantly contribute to increasing vaccine uptake.“We all have a responsibility to protect ourselves and our communities by staying informed and maintaining our recommended vaccinations,” Dr. Hart underscores.
One message Dr. Hart hopes to leave readers with is clear and urgent: “Measles is highly contagious and still poses a significant threat to unvaccinated individuals. The best way to protect yourself and others is to get vaccinated. If you’re unsure about your vaccination status, don’t wait – talk to your healthcare provider and get vaccinated.”
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Is there a specific risk to travelers passing through Sea-Tac Airport following the recent measles exposure?
Archyde News: Interview with Dr. Emily Hart on Measles Exposure at Sea-tac Airport
Archyde News (AN): Good day, Dr. Hart. We appreciate your time today. Let’s dive right in. Can you explain to our readers the gravity of the measles exposure that recently occurred at Sea-Tac Airport?
Dr. Emily Hart (EH): Thank you for having me. Indeed, the measles exposure at Sea-Tac airport is a concern due to measles’ highly contagious nature. Measles virus can linger in the air up to two hours after an infected person has left the area. This long infectious period significantly increases the risk of secondary transmission, especially in settings like airports where many people are in close proximity for extended periods.
AN: That’s worrying, indeed. How do we know if we’ve been exposed, and what should we do if we were?
EH: If you were at Sea-Tac Airport between 2:30 pm and 5:00 pm on January 10th, you may have been exposed to measles. The incubation period for measles is about 10-14 days, so it’s crucial to watch for symptoms until January 24th. Symptoms typically appear in two stages. In the first stage, you may have a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. In the second stage,a rash develops,usually starting on the face and spreading to the rest of the body.
if you think you’ve been exposed and develop these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider promptly. Inform them about your potential exposure before visiting the clinic to avoid exposing others. They can then evaluate you and decide if a test is needed.
AN: What can people do to protect themselves and others?
EH: First and foremost, ensure you’re up-to-date with your MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine. Everyone 12 months and older should have at least one dose of MMR vaccine, with a repeat dose 28 days later for lasting immunity. Individuals born before 1957 are considered immune due to past exposure to the virus, but vaccination remains the most reliable way to protect oneself and the community.
after a measles exposure, individuals can recieve a post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) using MMR vaccine within 6 days of exposure or a specific antibody treatment called immunoglobulin within 6 days of exposure. Though, these interventions only protect those who have not been previously vaccinated or had measles.
AN: Can you elaborate on why measles is still a concern in countries with widespread vaccination?
EH: Despite widespread vaccination efforts, measles remains a concern due to several factors. Firstly, the virus is highly contagious – about 90% of the people close to an infected person who are not immune will also become infected. This high transmission rate increases the likelihood of outbreaks, even in populations with relatively low vaccination rates.
Secondly, societal shifts and misinformation have led some parents to question the safety and efficacy of vaccines, resulting in lower vaccination rates in certain communities. Waning immunity over time in previously vaccinated individuals also contributes to the ongoing risk of measles transmission.
Lastly, international travel facilitates the importation of measles cases into previously measles-free countries, as we’ve seen in several European countries and even here in the United States.
AN: Dr. Hart, thank you for your insight. How can our readers stay informed and up-to-date on measles outbreaks and their prevention?
EH: I recommend staying informed through reliable health sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Washington State Department of Health. Both organizations provide up-to-date facts on measles outbreaks, vaccination schedules, and how to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Regularly check the CDC’s measles cases and outbreaks page (
AN: Wise advice, indeed. Thank you, Dr. Hart, for your time and expertise.
EH: You’re very welcome. It’s crucial for everyone to understand the importance of measles vaccination in protecting our communities from this highly contagious and potentially hazardous disease.
