Measles-Infected Passenger Passes Through LAX, Potential Exposure to Others
LOS ANGELES—A passenger on an airline who had measles arrived at Los Angeles International Airport the day before Thanksgiving, possibly exposing other passengers on the flight and individuals within the airport terminal, public health officials reported on Thursday.
The passenger, who is not a county resident, arrived on Qatar Airways flight QR 0739 at the Tom Bradley International Terminal B, Gate 155, on November 27.
“Those present in Terminal B from around 12:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. may be at risk of contracting measles from this individual,” the Department of Public Health stated. “In partnership with the [U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention], local health departments will notify passengers seated in specific areas on Qatar Airways flight QR 0739 from November 27, 2024, who may have been exposed. These agencies collaborate to examine cases of communicable disease exposure on international flights to the U.S.”
Individuals who think they might have been exposed are encouraged to verify their vaccination status or previous immune response due to infection. Those who are not immune could potentially develop measles within seven to 21 days post-exposure, according to health officials.
“Measles spreads readily through the air and on surfaces, and particularly among individuals who are unprotected,” stated Dr. Muntu Davis, Los Angeles County health officer. “A person can transmit the disease to others even before displaying symptoms, and symptoms typically appear between seven and 21 days after exposure. Measles can result in severe health issues for young children and at-risk adults. The most effective way to safeguard yourself and your family from infection is through the highly effective [measles] vaccine.”
Typical symptoms of measles include a high fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, small white spots in the mouth, and a rash emerging three to five days after the initial signs of illness, beginning at the face and then spreading throughout the body.
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The Department of Public Health reported that there have been 280 cases of measles in the United States this year, more than double the total from 2023, with 40 percent of those affected requiring hospitalization.
