A traveler infected with measles may have exposed passengers at Los Angeles International Airport and a nearby hotel, prompting health officials to issue a warning.
A measles-infected traveler may have exposed passengers at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and guests at a nearby Hilton hotel on June 11, marking the sixth confirmed case in Los Angeles County this year.
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health announced on Wednesday that it is investigating the confirmed measles case linked to a traveler who arrived on Cathay Pacific Flight CX 884. The individual was infectious while passing through the county, potentially exposing others at both LAX and the Hilton Los Angeles Airport Hotel.
Health officials noted that the risk of exposure could rise as summer travel increases and Los Angeles prepares to welcome international visitors for FIFA World Cup events taking place in the region.
According to health officials, anyone who was present at the Tom Bradley International Terminal between 10 a.m. and noon on June 11 may have been exposed to the virus. Additionally, a potential exposure was identified at the Hilton Los Angeles Airport Hotel, located at 5711 W. Century Blvd., between 11:15 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. on the same day.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is collaborating with local health departments to notify passengers who were seated near the infected traveler on the international flight. Individuals who were at either location during the specified times could develop symptoms between seven and 21 days after exposure, with July 2 being the last day to monitor for symptoms.
As measles cases continue to rise, health officials are urging residents to ensure they are fully protected. Dr. Muntu Davis, the Los Angeles County Health Officer, emphasized the importance of vaccination, stating, “The MMR vaccine is the safest and most reliable way to prevent measles and protect yourself, your family, and your community.”
Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, followed by a rash that typically begins on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.
Fox News Digital reached out to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health for additional comments but did not receive a response.
According to Fox News, the public is advised to remain vigilant as the situation develops.