Los Angeles County health officials announced Wednesday they are investigating a confirmed case of measles involving a traveler who may have exposed people to the highly contagious disease at Hollywood Burbank Airport and elsewhere in the county.
The traveler arrived on Southwest Airlines Flight 4245 at Gate A4 on June 17. People who were at the gate between 8:45 a.m. and 9:45 a.m. that day may have been exposed, according to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health.
People also may have been exposed at Thrifty Rental Car Service, 2627 N. Hollywood Way in Burbank, from 9:20 a.m. to 10:20 a.m. June 17 and from 10:25 a.m. to 11:25 a.m. June 18.
Public health officials said this is the seventh confirmed case of measles reported in Los Angeles County this year.
People exposed at the airport or Thrifty Rental Car on June 17 should monitor for symptoms through July 8, while those exposed at the rental car facility on June 18 should monitor through July 9.
Officials said people who have had measles or received the recommended measles, mumps and rubella vaccine are likely protected but should still watch for symptoms. Those who are unvaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown face a higher risk of infection.
“As measles cases increase, it is important that residents take steps to make sure they are fully protected,” Los Angeles County Health Officer Dr. Muntu Davis said in a statement. “The MMR vaccine is the safest and most reliable way to prevent measles and protect yourself, your family and your community.”
Davis said the risk of exposure may increase with summer travel and Los Angeles County hosting World Cup events, urging residents to confirm their immunity before traveling or attending large gatherings.
Public Health said it is working to identify any additional exposure sites and people who may have been exposed.
Measles spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes and can remain in the air or on surfaces for hours. Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes and a rash that typically begins on the face before spreading to the rest of the body.
According to the county, more than 2,100 measles cases have been reported nationwide this year.