Traveler with measles was at LAX. Caution urged amid World Cup

Key Points:

• A person infected with measles traveled on a Cathay Pacific flight from Hong Kong to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on June 11, potentially exposing others at the airport terminal and nearby hotel; this marks the fourth measles case linked to LAX this year.
• The measles resurgence coincides with increased travel and large gatherings in California for the FIFA World Cup, raising concerns about exposure among unvaccinated individuals, especially infants too young for vaccination.
• Health officials urge travelers and attendees of crowded events to confirm measles immunity, get vaccinated if needed, monitor for symptoms such as rash and fever, and practice preventive measures like mask-wearing and hand hygiene.
• Measles cases have surged in the Americas this year, with over 20,000 reported and 25 deaths, including 50 confirmed cases in California alone, mostly among unvaccinated or unknown vaccination status individuals.
• Vaccination remains the best protection, with recommendations for two doses starting at 12 months, and earlier doses advised for infants traveling internationally; unvaccinated or immunization-unknown individuals are at higher risk and should closely monitor symptoms after potential exposure.