SEATTLE — The Public Health Department of Seattle and King County confirmed a case of measles Friday with possible exposure in West Seattle.
The department released a statement that there is a confirmed case of measles in a child with possible exposure at Franciscan Urgent Care on June 10.
They said that the child was not vaccinated, and the infection was likely connected with travel outside of the U.S.
Anyone who was at the facility during the same time that the child was there may have been exposed to measles, the department said.
“Measles is highly contagious and if you don’t have immunity, you can get it just by being in a room where a person with measles has been,” said Dr. Eric Chow, Communicable Disease Chief for Public Health in Seattle & King County. “We’ve seen an increase in measles cases around the world and in the U.S., so it’s an important time to check your vaccination status and get vaccinated if you aren’t protected.”
The measles vaccine is effective in providing immunity to the disease, the department said. Receiving two doses of measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine can provide about 97% protection from getting infected.
Health officials said that transmission of measles can happen before someone becomes aware that they have it or before a rash appears.
The measles disease can remain in the air for up to two hours after someone infectious leaves the area.
The department said that anyone who was at the Franciscan Urgent Care in West Seattle on Fauntleroy Way SW between 3:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. could have been exposed.
They urge anyone who was at the clinic during that time to verify if they have received the measles vaccination, contact a healthcare provider if they began to experience any symptoms, and schedule an appointment to receive the vaccine if they haven’t already.
According to the University of Washington Medical Center, most symptoms of measles appear between 10 to 12 days after someone has been exposed. Some symptoms include a high fever that can last two to four days, cough, runny nose, pink eye, and a rash.
Measles can be confirmed with a sample of blood or saliva in a lab.
The best way to prevent the spread of measles is by wearing a mask, washing your hands often, and making sure to cover your mouth when sneezing or coughing.
Rachel Carter is a health and wellness expert dedicated to helping readers lead healthier lives. With a background in nutrition, she offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being.
