Possible Measles Exposure in King County

Public Health – Seattle & King County is investigating a confirmed measles case in an adult who recently traveled internationally. This individual visited multiple locations in Bellevue, Seattle, and Woodinville while contagious. If you were at any of these locations between June 27th and July 2nd, you might have been exposed to measles.

Contagion and Immunity

Dr. Eric Chow, the Communicable Disease Chief for Public Health – Seattle & King County, stated, “Measles is very contagious. If you don’t have immunity, you can get it just by being in a room where a person with measles has been.” He emphasized the importance of checking your vaccination status and getting vaccinated, especially before traveling.

The measles vaccine is highly effective. Two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine provide about 97% protection against measles, and this protection lasts a lifetime.

What to Do if You Were Exposed

Most people in the area have immunity to measles through vaccination, so the general public’s risk is low. However, if you were at any of the listed locations during the specified times, follow these steps:

1. Check Your Vaccination Status: Find out if you have been vaccinated for measles or had measles before. Ensure you are up-to-date with the MMR vaccinations by talking to your doctor.
2. Monitor Your Health: If you develop a fever or an unexplained rash, call a healthcare provider promptly. Do not visit a clinic or hospital without calling first to avoid possibly spreading measles. Limit contact with others, especially those without known immunity.
3. Post-Exposure Actions: Vaccination or medication can prevent illness after exposure in some cases. Check with your healthcare provider, especially if you are at high risk for measles complications.
4. Watch for Symptoms: If you were exposed and are not immune, you might become sick between July 4, 2024, and July 23, 2024. Immunocompromised individuals may experience symptoms later.

About Measles

Measles is a very contagious and potentially severe disease causing fever, rash, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. It spreads through the air after a person with measles coughs or sneezes. Symptoms begin 7 to 21 days after exposure, and the disease is contagious from four days before the rash appears through four days after.

Measles can lead to complications like ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, and rarely, encephalitis (brain inflammation). High-risk groups include infants and children under 5, adults over 20, pregnant individuals, and people with weakened immune systems.

Prevention

The best way to protect yourself, your family, and your community is to get vaccinated. The MMR vaccine is safe, highly effective, and provides long-lasting protection. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), two doses are about 97% effective at preventing measles.

For more information about measles and vaccinations, visit King County Measles Information.

References:

• Public Health – Seattle & King County
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)