Canadian traveler infected with measles visits multiple venues in Washington

In the United States, a Canadian traveler who was diagnosed with measles has prompted health officials in Washington state to issue a warning to the public. This individual was contagious while visiting various public places in the Seattle area between April 30 and May 3, 2025. Notably, locations included Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and several spots in Renton, Bellevue, Seattle, Everett, and Woodinville. Officials have expressed concern due to the highly contagious nature of measles, which can spread before symptoms appear and remain airborne for up to two hours after the infected person has left the area. Public health officials immediately encouraged residents who visited any of these locations during the specified period to verify their vaccination status. The urgency of this situation is heightened by the ongoing resurgence of measles, not just in Washington but across the United States and globally. A record of over 1,000 measles cases has been reported nationwide this year, and experts fear 2025 might witness the highest number of cases since the early 1990s, according to Meagan Kay, a medical epidemiologist for Public Health – Seattle and King County. This particular case has not been linked to any earlier measles cases in the region, although several incidents this year involving non-residents were recorded. As of now, five cases of measles have been reported among residents of Washington state in 2025. The arrival of this infectious traveler has raised alarms for state health officials, who stress the importance of public awareness and adherence to vaccination guidelines. Health experts are particularly concerned because anyone exposed could face serious health risks. The symptoms of measles typically include a fever, cough, runny nose, and sore throat, eventually leading to a characteristic rash that can develop after several days. Given that measles can be more easily contracted in public areas, especially in crowded spaces such as airports and shopping centers, health officials are reminding the community to stay vigilant. They also emphasize that individuals who learn they have been exposed should seek medical attention promptly if they develop symptoms that match those of measles. This situation underscores a critical need for individuals to remain informed about their vaccination status, particularly as measles continues to re-emerge as a public health concern in various parts of the world.