Measles case reported at Sea-Tac Airport, 4th WA case of 2025

A Canadian resident infected with measles traveled through Seattle-Tacoma International Airport on April 6-7, making it Washington's fourth case of the year. The individual likely contracted the virus abroad, and their vaccination status remains unverified. Health officials provided a detailed timeline of the individual's movements, which included areas within the airport and a local hotel. The measles virus can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves, prompting concerns about potential exposure. Despite this, the risk to the general public is considered low, as most residents in King County are vaccinated.

Local health authorities recommend that anyone who may have been exposed check their MMR vaccination status. Symptoms for unvaccinated individuals could arise between April 13-28, prompting a call for caution and proactive healthcare engagement. Elysia Gonzales, a Medical Epidemiologist, emphasized the importance of vaccination amid rising measles cases globally.