Public Health – Seattle & King County has confirmed that a baby diagnosed with measles recently passed through Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (Sea-Tac) while contagious, making this the fifth measles case reported in Washington state so far in 2025. Three of the five cases have involved infants.
According to health officials, the child—who had not yet received the measles vaccine—was likely exposed to the virus during an international trip. Measles is highly contagious and can spread easily in public settings like airports and hospitals.
“Measles continues to circulate globally, and international travel increases the risk of exposure,” said Dr. Elysia Gonzales, medical epidemiologist for Public Health – Seattle & King County. “We urge parents and travelers to speak with their healthcare providers about vaccinations. Infants as young as 6 months should get an early dose of the MMR vaccine before traveling internationally.”
Locations of Potential Exposure
Health officials are notifying the public about the locations where the infant was present while infectious:
April 15 – Sea-Tac Airport
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Time: 4:50 p.m. to 7:45 p.m.
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Areas: S Concourse (Gate S10), the international arrivals facility (customs and baggage claim, Carousel 21), and Gina Marie Hall at the south end of the terminal.
April 17 – Seattle Children’s Hospital
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Time: 8:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. and again from 5:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m.
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Areas: Emergency Department, Forest B Level 1 lobby, and Forest B pharmacy.
April 18 – Seattle Children’s Hospital
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Time: 12:05 p.m. to 2:25 p.m.
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Areas: Ocean 6, 7, and 8 lobbies, Ocean 8 hallway to urgent care, and Ocean 8 urgent care lobby.
Anyone who was at these locations during the specified times and is not immune to measles could be at risk of developing symptoms. The typical window for symptoms to appear is between April 22 and May 11, though it may take longer for individuals with weakened immune systems.
Preventing Future Cases
Health experts stress that measles is preventable through vaccination. Children typically receive the first dose of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine between 12 and 15 months, and a second dose between 4 and 6 years. Adults should also ensure they are immune, especially before international travel.
Public Health continues to monitor for additional cases and encourages those who may have been exposed to contact their healthcare provider if symptoms—such as fever, rash, or cough—develop.
