Measles Case Detected at LAX: Traveler Stays at Nearby Hilton

measles Alert: Traveler Exposed LAX and Local Hotel

Health officials are sounding the alarm after a traveler confirmed to have measles passed through los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and stayed at a local hotel earlier this month. The L.A.County Department of Public Health is now investigating potential exposure sites and urging anyone who might have been in the vicinity to take precautions.

The individual arrived at LAX on July 5th, though specific flight details are still being confirmed. Following their arrival, the traveler stayed at the Hilton Los Angeles Airport, located at 5711 W.Century Blvd., from the evening of July 5th until their checkout on July 7th.

Public health authorities are advising anyone who was present at LAX or the hilton Los Angeles Airport during these specific dates to monitor themselves for any signs of measles for up to three weeks. Common symptoms, as outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), include a high fever, cough, and red, watery eyes. Crucially, officials emphasize the importance of confirming one’s measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccination status, noting that unvaccinated individuals are at a considerably higher risk of contracting the virus.

This alert comes at a time when the United States is experiencing its most notable measles outbreak in decades. Last month, reports indicated that California alone had already surpassed its case numbers for the entirety of the previous year. Health experts point out that increased summer travel can unfortunately amplify the risk of not only exposure but also the transmission of highly contagious diseases like measles.

“Measles is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can linger in the air and on surfaces, making it easy to spread, especially among people who are not already protected from it,” explained Dr. muntu Davis, Los Angeles County Health Officer. He further cautioned that individuals can be contagious before they even show symptoms, and the incubation period can range from seven to 21 days post-exposure.

The Department of Public health is encouraging all residents to review their immunization records and to consult with their healthcare provider if they believe they may have been exposed, especially if they are pregnant or have a compromised immune system.They also advise avoiding crowded places if any symptoms develop.

“The best way to protect yourself and your family from infection is with the highly effective measles vaccine,” Dr. Davis reiterated, underscoring the critical role of immunization in preventing the spread of this potentially serious illness.

What steps should individuals who stayed at the Hilton Los Angeles Airport between July 22-24, 2025 take regarding potential measles exposure?

Confirmed Measles Exposure at Los Angeles International Airport

A confirmed case of measles has been identified in a traveler who recently passed through Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).Public health officials are actively working to identify and notify individuals who may have been exposed. The traveler reportedly stayed at a Hilton hotel near the airport, prompting increased vigilance in that area. This incident underscores the ongoing risk of measles outbreaks despite high vaccination rates and highlights the importance of measles prevention.

Details of the LAX Measles Exposure

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health confirmed the case on July 24, 2025. While specific details regarding the traveler’s origin and flight details are being withheld to protect privacy, authorities have released the following key information:

Exposure Location: LAX – specifically, terminals 4 and 5 are being investigated as potential exposure sites.

Hotel Stay: The individual stayed at the Hilton Los Angeles Airport hotel. Alex Reeds who were at the hotel during the relevant timeframe (July 22-24, 2025) are being contacted.

Symptoms: Individuals exhibiting symptoms of measles should immediately contact their healthcare provider. Common symptoms include:

High fever (frequently enough 104°F or higher)

Cough

Runny nose

Watery eyes

Tiny white spots inside the mouth (Koplik’s spots)

A rash that spreads from the head to the body

Understanding Measles and Its Transmission

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there is only one serotype of the measles virus, but at least 20 different genotypes have been isolated globally https://www.who.int/teams/health-product-policy-and-standards/standards-and-specifications/norms-and-standards/vaccine-standardization/measles.

Here’s how it spreads:

1. Airborne Transmission: Measles is spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
2. Highly Contagious: It’s one of the most contagious viruses known – 90% of people who are not immune will become infected if exposed.
3. Incubation Period: The incubation period (time from exposure to symptoms) is typically 10-14 days.
4. Communicability: A person with measles can spread the virus from four days before the rash appears to four days afterward.

Who is at Risk?

The primary risk factors for contracting measles include:

Unvaccinated Individuals: Those who have not received the MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) vaccine are most vulnerable.

Individuals with Compromised immune Systems: People undergoing chemotherapy, living with HIV/AIDS, or taking immunosuppressant medications.

Infants Too Young to Vaccinate: Babies under 12 months old are not eligible for the MMR vaccine.

Travelers: International travel, particularly to regions with ongoing measles outbreaks, increases risk. Travel vaccinations are crucial.

MMR Vaccine: Your Best Protection

The MMR vaccine is highly effective in preventing measles.

Dosage: Two doses of the MMR vaccine are recommended for most individuals.

Schedule: The first dose is typically given between 12-15 months of age,and the second dose between 4-6 years of age.

Effectiveness: Two doses of the MMR vaccine are approximately 97% effective in preventing measles.

Vaccine Availability: The MMR vaccine is widely available at doctor’s offices, clinics, and pharmacies.

Public health Response & Recommendations

The Los angeles County Department of Public Health is taking the following steps:

Contact Tracing: Identifying and notifying individuals who may have been exposed at LAX and the Hilton hotel.

Exposure Notifications: Issuing public health advisories to inform travelers and hotel guests.

Vaccination Clinics: Perhaps offering vaccination clinics to individuals who may have been exposed.

Recommendations for the public:

Check Vaccination Records: Verify your and your family’s MMR vaccination status.

Get Vaccinated: If you are not fully vaccinated, schedule an appointment to receive the MMR vaccine.

monitor for Symptoms: Be vigilant for symptoms of measles, especially if you have recently traveled through LAX or stayed at the Hilton Los Angeles airport.

Contact Your Doctor: If you suspect you may have measles, contact your healthcare provider before visiting a clinic or emergency room to prevent potential spread.

Measles Outbreaks: A Global Perspective

While measles was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, outbreaks still occur, often linked to imported cases from other countries. Recent