Public health officials from the Seattle Tacoma international Airport are warning passengers of a possible exposure to that contagious measles virus. Prior to the diagnosis, the traveler was confirmed to be within these premises, which increases the chances that other people have been exposed to the virus. On September 6, the passenger who had contracted the disease outside the United States was confirmed to be present at the airport, with video footage showing that, between 8:00 PM and 11:30 PM that night, the said passenger may have been present at the north satellite terminal, the inter-terminal train, and baggage claim areas. The travel was also reportedly seen later that night at the Bistro, the restaurant located at the Courtyard Seattle Federal Way Hotel.
Health officials from Public Health Seattle and King County say that most people have already been vaccinated for measles, or have had the disease previously so the airport incident may not be as critical. However, they warn that if people have not had either of these previously and were present at the airport during the indicated times, they could have been exposed and should keep an eye out if they fall sick between September 13 and 27, which is about enough time for the disease to incubate. Possible patients are being instructed to seek medical attention immediately if they should experience fever or develop an unexplained rash. They say that the correct way to go about the situation is to call into the hospital or clinic first and let them know about your symptoms to avoid the possibility of exposing others to the disease as well.
People with a higher risk of contracting the disease are those who have not been vaccinated against measles, infants below six months old, pregnant women, and people with compromised or weakened immune systems.