A Measles Outbreak in Snohomish County: What You Need to Know
A recent case of measles has been identified in a traveler who passed through Seattle-Tacoma International Airport on January 22, 2026. The individual was at the airport from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., specifically near Gate A12 in the A Concourse, and then moved to the International Arrivals Hall at baggage claim 22 before exiting on the lower level. Health officials emphasize that vaccination is key to protection against measles.
If you were at the airport during the specified times and are not immune to measles, you may develop symptoms between January 29 and February 12, 2026. This is the typical incubation period for the virus. The case was reported on February 12, 2026, and it highlights the ongoing measles outbreak in Snohomish County, which has seen a rise in cases over the past two weeks, with three additional cases confirmed on Wednesday, bringing the total to six.
Here's what you should do if you were potentially exposed:
- Check your vaccination records to confirm if you've been vaccinated for measles or if you've had the disease before. If you're unsure about your immunity, get vaccinated with the MMR vaccine. It's safe to receive additional doses, even if you were previously vaccinated without documentation.
- Residents of Snohomish County can contact local pharmacies and clinics to inquire about vaccination availability. In Washington state, children under 19 can be vaccinated for free, and most insurance plans, including Medicare Part B, cover the cost for adults.
- If you were born after 1956, are not immunized, and have never had measles, quarantine for 21 days after exposure.
- Contact a healthcare provider immediately if you experience a fever or an unexplained rash.
- To prevent the spread of measles, avoid visiting clinics or hospitals without prior notification to inform them of your potential exposure.
