L.A. County health officials confirm fifth measles case this year

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is investigating a confirmed case of measles in a resident who recently traveled internationally, the agency said in a statement Saturday.

This is the fifth measles case identified by the county this year, as outbreaks increase across the United States and around the world.

The infected resident arrived at Los Angeles International Airport on Thursday aboard Alaska Airlines Flight 1354. Other travelers present at the Tom Bradley International Terminal that day between 6 a.m. and 8 a.m. may have been exposed to the virus, officials said.

Public health officials advise residents to check their vaccination status and monitor symptoms if exposed. The measles-mumps-rubella vaccine provides the most effective protection against measles, according to the Ministry of Public Health.

“As measles cases increase, it is important that residents take steps to ensure they are fully protected,” Los Angeles County Health Officer Muntu Davis said in a statement. “The MMR vaccine is the safest and most reliable way to prevent measles and protect you, your family and your community.

In coordination with the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, LA County Public Health will notify travelers seated near the infected person on board the flight.

Affected travelers are at risk of developing measles seven to 21 days after exposure to the virus. Symptoms include rash, fever, cough, and red, watery eyes.

Measles can cause complications including pneumonia, brain swelling and even death. People with symptoms should notify their healthcare facility before going there, officials said.

So far this year, 1,814 cases of measles have been confirmed nationwide, including 48 in California.

In January, health authorities recorded the highest number of cases since the United States successfully eliminated the virus in 2000.