Measles case reported at LAX as global World Cup travel sparks fears of spread

Key Points:

• A traveler with measles passed through Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on June 11, shortly after another case was reported at San Francisco International Airport, raising concerns about the spread of the disease during World Cup events.
• Potential exposure sites include LAX’s Tom Brady International Terminal B and the Hilton Los Angeles Airport Hotel on June 11; individuals present at these locations during specified times are advised to monitor for symptoms and quarantine if unvaccinated.
• Measles symptoms can appear 7 to 10 days after exposure and include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and rash; vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, infants, and immunocompromised individuals should seek medical advice immediately if exposed.
• This LAX case is the sixth in Los Angeles County this year, contributing to California’s total of 50 confirmed cases as of June 12, nearly double the number in all of 2025 and the highest since 2019; most cases involve unvaccinated individuals under 19.
• Health officials emphasize the importance of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, urging travelers to confirm immunity before attending large events or traveling to countries like Mexico, which is experiencing a significant measles outbreak.