LA Measles Cases Rise: 4th Confirmed, Exposure at LAX & Restaurants
- Los Angeles County public health officials have confirmed a fourth case of measles this year, raising concerns about potential community spread.
- The confirmed case involves a resident who arrived at the Tom Bradley International Terminal (Terminal B) at LAX on February 9 aboard Singapore Airlines Flight 38, after a...
- Following arrival, the individual visited several fast-food restaurants and a convenience store, potentially exposing others.
Los Angeles County public health officials have confirmed a fourth case of measles this year, raising concerns about potential community spread. The individual, who recently traveled internationally, was infectious while visiting Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and several locations in the San Gabriel Valley.
The confirmed case involves a resident who arrived at the Tom Bradley International Terminal (Terminal B) at LAX on aboard Singapore Airlines Flight 38, after a 14-hour journey from Singapore. Health officials state that anyone who was in Terminal B between and on may have been exposed to the virus.
Following arrival, the individual visited several fast-food restaurants and a convenience store, potentially exposing others. Specific locations and exposure times include:
- Burger King #317, 1212 W Beverly Blvd, Montebello, CA 90640, , –
- Taqueria El Atacor #3, 11156 1/2 Whittier Blvd, Whittier, CA 90606, , –
- Domino’s Pizza #7857, 803 W Whittier Blvd, Montebello, CA 90640, , –
- 7-Eleven #25387, 1106 W Beverly Blvd, Montebello, CA 90640, , –
“As measles cases increase, it is important that residents take steps to make sure they are fully protected,” said L.A. County Health Officer Dr. Muntu Davis in a statement. “The [measles-mumps-rubella] vaccine is the safest and most reliable way to prevent measles and protect yourself, your family, and your community.”
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms typically appear seven to 21 days after exposure and include fever, cough, runny nose, red, watery eyes, and a rash that spreads across the body. Complications can be serious, including pneumonia, brain swelling, and, in rare cases, death.
Health officials urge individuals who may have been exposed at LAX or the listed locations to monitor for symptoms. The monitoring deadline for those exposed at LAX is , while the deadline for those exposed at the 7-Eleven is .
Individuals who develop symptoms should isolate themselves and contact their healthcare provider *before* seeking medical attention, to allow for appropriate precautions to prevent further spread.
This case is part of a broader national trend. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 2,280 confirmed measles cases in the U.S. Last year, the highest total since 1991. As of , 910 cases have already been confirmed nationwide this year, including 15 in California.
The increase in cases is linked to declining vaccination rates. The MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine is highly effective, with two doses providing approximately 97% protection. Children age 1 year and older are considered fully immunized after receiving two doses. Public health officials emphasize that vaccination is the most effective way to protect against measles and prevent outbreaks.
Previous measles cases confirmed in L.A. County this year involved individuals with recent international travel to Sherman Oaks on , Woodland Hills on , and one case with no identified public exposure locations within the county.
Residents are encouraged to check their vaccination records and contact their healthcare provider if they are unsure of their immunity status. Maintaining high vaccination coverage is crucial to protecting the community from this highly contagious disease.
