Home / Health / LAX Measles Alert: Traveler Exposed Passengers
LAX Measles Alert: Traveler Exposed Passengers
17 May
Summary
- Fifth measles case confirmed in LA this year from an international traveler.
- Passengers at Terminal B on Alaska Airlines flight 1354 may have been exposed.
- MMR vaccine is the safest and most reliable way to prevent measles.
Los Angeles County public health officials have confirmed the fifth measles case of 2026. The case involves an international traveler who arrived at Los Angeles International Airport earlier this week.
The traveler arrived at Tom Bradley International Airport Terminal B aboard Alaska Airlines flight 1354. Health officials have identified a specific window of time, between 6 a.m. and 8 a.m., when passengers at Terminal B may have been exposed to the virus.
Passengers seated near the infected individual are being notified by their local health departments in collaboration with the CDC. Those potentially exposed could develop measles symptoms between 7 to 21 days after exposure, with the monitoring period ending on June 4.
Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, red and watery eyes, and a distinctive rash. The virus spreads easily through the air and direct contact. Health Officer Dr. Muntu Davis stressed the importance of the MMR vaccine for prevention, noting that measles can lead to serious complications.
Healthcare facilities will directly notify potentially exposed patients and staff. The county health department is actively working to identify any other locations where exposure might have occurred.
