A traveler infected with measles may have exposed passengers at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and guests at a nearby hotel after arriving in Los Angeles County earlier this month, health officials confirmed Wednesday. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is investigating a confirmed measles case involving a traveler who arrived aboard Cathay Pacific Flight CX 884 on June 11. The traveler was infectious while passing through LAX and the Hilton Los Angeles Airport Hotel, potentially exposing others to the highly contagious disease.
Immediate Action & Core Facts
The case marks the sixth measles infection reported in Los Angeles County this year. Health officials identified potential exposure at the Tom Bradley International Terminal between 10 a.m. and noon on June 11, as well as at the Hilton Los Angeles Airport Hotel between 11:15 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. the same day. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is working with local health departments to notify passengers who were seated near the infected traveler on the international flight.
People who were at either location during the listed times could develop symptoms between seven and 21 days after exposure, officials said. The last day to monitor for symptoms is July 2.
Deeper Dive & Context
Rising Measles Cases and Travel Risks
The latest case comes as summer travel ramps up and Los Angeles prepares to host FIFA World Cup events, increasing the risk of exposure to infectious diseases. Dr. Muntu Davis, L.A. County health officer, urged residents to ensure they are fully vaccinated against measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR).
Global and Local Context
Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, a UC San Francisco infectious diseases expert, noted that measles cases are increasing globally, posing a particular risk to unvaccinated individuals, including infants too young to be inoculated. This is the fourth measles case confirmed in a passenger passing through LAX while possibly contagious this year, and the sixth case overall reported by L.A. County health officials.
Public Health Response
Health officials in the Bay Area also warned that a measles-infected passenger had traveled through San Francisco International Airport and potentially exposed others to the disease while visiting stores in San José. The CDC and local health departments are collaborating to notify and monitor individuals who may have been exposed.
Vaccination and Prevention
Officials emphasized the importance of vaccination, particularly before traveling and attending crowded events. The MMR vaccine is considered the safest and most reliable way to prevent measles and protect oneself, family, and the community.