Los Angeles County health officials are investigating a recent case of measles that has been linked to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). The individual in question flew on Norse Atlantic Airways flight Z0711, arriving at the Tom Bradley International Terminal around 2:15 PM on July 26. Following their arrival, the person traveled to Orange County, raising concerns about potential exposure to the highly contagious virus.
The Los Angeles Department of Public Health has issued a warning for anyone who was in the Tom Bradley International Terminal or Terminal B between 2:30 PM and 4:00 PM on that day. Those individuals are considered at risk for developing measles due to possible exposure during this time frame.
In addition to the airport exposure, health officials are conducting an investigation into further exposure sites within Orange County. The Orange County Healthcare Agency is actively working to identify any additional locations where individuals may have been at risk.
Passengers aboard flight Z0711 may also have been exposed to the virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will reach out to local health departments to inform affected passengers about their potential exposure.
Health officials are urging anyone who believes they may have been exposed to check their vaccination status against measles. Those who are unvaccinated or who have never had measles should be vigilant for symptoms, particularly the characteristic rash and fever. It is recommended that individuals contact their healthcare provider if they exhibit any symptoms.
According to public health guidelines, if individuals do not develop symptoms by August 16, which is 21 days after the date of possible exposure, they are no longer considered at risk of contracting the virus.
Dr. Muntu Davis, the health officer for Los Angeles County, emphasized the ease with which measles can spread, stating, “Measles spreads easily through the air and on surfaces and easily between people who are not already protected from it. A person can spread the illness to others before they have symptoms, and it can take seven to 21 days for symptoms to show up after being exposed.”
Measles can lead to severe health complications, particularly in young children and vulnerable adults. The best preventive measure against this infectious disease is vaccination. The measles vaccine is highly effective and is recommended for individuals who have not been vaccinated or have not previously contracted the disease.
For more information on measles, including vaccination details and symptoms, individuals are encouraged to visit the CDC’s official website.
