Two New Measles Cases Confirmed In King County

Public Health – Seattle & King County has confirmed two new measles cases within a single King County household, bringing the total number of measles cases in Washington state residents this year to ten. The two individuals, a child and an adult family member, visited several public locations while infectious earlier this month.

According to health officials, the infections are believed to have originated from an international visitor who was staying with the family and reported feeling ill. The child had received one dose of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, while the adult’s vaccination status is unknown.

“These cases are a reminder that with more measles cases globally and in the U.S., it’s critical to ensure vaccinations are up to date, especially before international travel,” said Meagan Kay, Medical Epidemiologist for Public Health – Seattle & King County. “Vaccination will not only protect you but will also make you less likely to spread it to others if you develop measles. Make sure to get vaccinated at least two weeks before your trip to build immunity.”

The two new cases are not connected to any of the previously announced local measles cases. Public Health has identified multiple locations where the individuals were present while infectious. Because measles is highly contagious and the virus can remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves, anyone who visited these locations at the following dates and times could have been exposed:

· June 14, 11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Bellevue Fire Station 9, Bellevue

· June 15, 10:30 a.m. – 2 p.m., St. Madeleine Sophie Catholic Parish, Bellevue

· June 15, 3 p.m. – 6 p.m., Lake Union Swim Academy, Seattle

· June 18, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m., Mary Wayte Pool, Mercer Island

· June 18, 2:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m., Costco Issaquah, Issaquah

· June 19, 1:20 p.m. – 4:20 p.m., Overlake Clinics Newcastle Urgent Care, Newcastle

· June 20, various times, Seattle Children’s Hospital, Seattle

· June 22, 9:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m., Swedish First Hill (Main Lobby, East Tower, Elevators), Seattle

Health officials say that while the risk to the general public is low due to high regional vaccination rates, individuals who were at any of these locations should check their vaccination status and monitor for symptoms, which include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash appearing three to five days after initial symptoms. Those who develop symptoms are advised to call their healthcare provider before visiting to avoid exposing others.

Measles is one of the most contagious diseases, with up to 9 out of 10 unvaccinated people exposed to the virus becoming infected. Complications can include ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, and in rare cases, encephalitis or death. People at highest risk include infants and children under five, adults over 20, pregnant people, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

“Even when physically confined, we possess the capacity to imagine boundlessly, and harness that joy to soar to new heights,” said Kay. “That’s what I hope this reminder of prevention and preparedness helps our community do—stay safe and protect each other.”

Public Health recommends anyone planning international travel ensure they are fully vaccinated against measles, with two doses of MMR vaccine providing about 97% lifetime protection. Those exposed to measles between June 21 and July 13 should monitor for symptoms and contact their provider if they belong to a high-risk group. For more information about measles, symptoms, and vaccination resources, visit www.kingcounty.gov/measles.