The Snohomish County Health Department in Washington has reported that at least two individuals have potentially been exposed to the measles virus. This comes hot on the heels of a confirmed case in an adult who, while contagious, traveled through Sea-Tac Airport, as announced by Public Health – Seattle & King County last week.
Currently, the Snohomish County Health Department is actively collaborating with those exposed, keeping a keen eye on their symptoms. The individuals have been strongly advised to remain in quarantine as much as possible and to wear masks in public places to minimize the risk of transmission.
According to an SCHD press release, people who were present at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport on January 10, between 2:30 pm and 8:00 pm, might have been exposed to the virus. The infectious person was seen around various parts of the airport, including the S-Gate and D-Gate concourses, customs arrivals, and baggage claim. Those infected from this exposure are likely to develop symptoms between January 17 and January 31, 2025.
Though the general public’s risk is comparatively low due to widespread immunity, Public Health – Seattle & King County encourages people to verify their vaccination status. The key precautionary steps include confirming previous measles vaccinations, and if symptoms such as fever or an unexpected rash emerge, contacting healthcare providers immediately. Importantly, one should call ahead before visiting medical facilities to prevent spreading the disease.
Dr. James Lewis, Health Officer for Snohomish County, expressed significant concern for individuals without vaccination-induced immunity, particularly young children. Highlighting the contagious nature of measles, he pointed out that severe cases can lead to high fevers, pneumonia, and in rare instances, brain swelling or even death. As of last December, measles cases were reported in 30 states, notably including Washington, with 80% involving unvaccinated individuals.
Vocabulary List:
- Contagious /kənˈteɪ.dʒəs/ (adjective): Capable of being transmitted from one individual to another.
- Quarantine /ˈkwɔːr.ən.tiːn/ (noun): A period of isolation to prevent the spread of disease.
- Transmission /trænsˈmɪʃ.ən/ (noun): The act of transferring something from one place or person to another particularly in the context of disease.
- Symptoms /ˈsɪmp.təmz/ (noun): Physical or mental features that indicate a condition or disease.
- Immunity /ɪˈmjuː.nə.ti/ (noun): The ability of an organism to resist infection or disease.
- Severe /sɪˈvɪr/ (adjective): Very great; intense often implying serious consequences.
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