Health officials are investigating a confirmed measles case involving a traveler who arrived at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on June 11, potentially exposing other passengers and guests at a nearby hotel. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health stated that the traveler was infectious during their time in the county.
The affected flight was Cathay Pacific Flight CX 884. Individuals who were at the Tom Bradley International Terminal between 10 a.m. and noon on June 11 may have been exposed. Additionally, a potential exposure was identified at the Hilton Los Angeles Airport Hotel, located at 5711 W. Century Blvd., between 11:15 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. on the same day.
This marks the sixth measles infection reported in Los Angeles County this year. Health officials are collaborating with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to notify passengers who were seated near the infected individual on the flight.
Symptoms of measles, including fever, cough, runny nose, and watery eyes, typically appear seven to 21 days after exposure, followed by a rash. For those potentially exposed on June 11, the last day to monitor for symptoms is July 2.
Health officials emphasized the importance of vaccination, with the MMR vaccine being the safest and most effective way to prevent measles. The warning comes as summer travel increases and Los Angeles prepares to host international visitors for upcoming FIFA World Cup events.