An infant from Orange County, who was diagnosed with measles, landed at Los Angeles International Airport earlier this month after traveling abroad.
Potential Exposure at LAX
Health authorities announced on Wednesday that passengers on the same flight may have been exposed to the virus. According to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, the infant arrived at Tom Bradley International Terminal on February 19 aboard Korean Air flight KAL11/KE11. Officials warned that individuals present at Terminal B between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. that day could be at risk of infection.
To mitigate the risk of further transmission, health officials are coordinating with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to notify passengers seated in areas with a higher likelihood of exposure.
Measles-Related Death Reported in Texas
In a separate incident, a child hospitalized in West Texas due to measles has succumbed to the illness, highlighting the severity of the ongoing outbreak.
Health Advisory for Potentially Exposed Individuals
While no additional public exposure in Orange County has been reported beyond the airport, local health officials are urging those who may have been exposed to review their vaccination records. Individuals who are not vaccinated or lack immunity from a previous infection could develop symptoms between seven and 21 days after exposure.
Dr. Muntu Davis, Los Angeles County Health Officer, emphasized the seriousness of the disease. “Measles is a highly contagious respiratory illness that spreads easily through airborne particles and contaminated surfaces, particularly among those without immunity. An infected person can transmit the virus before showing any symptoms, and it may take up to three weeks for symptoms to appear. Measles can result in severe complications, especially for young children and vulnerable adults. The most effective protection is vaccination.”
Recognizing Measles Symptoms
Early signs of measles include high fever, persistent cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, and small white spots inside the mouth. A rash typically appears three to five days after the initial symptoms, starting on the face and gradually spreading across the body.
Growing Number of Cases in the U.S.
According to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, 93 measles cases have been reported nationwide this year. However, with ongoing outbreaks in Texas and New Mexico, that number is expected to increase.