Santa Clara County public health officials have identified a confirmed case of measles in an individual who visited San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and two retail locations in San Jose on October 24, 2024. The Santa Clara County Public Health Department advises that unvaccinated individuals who were present at these locations may have been exposed to the highly contagious virus.
Timeline and Locations of Potential Exposure
According to the Santa Clara County Public Health Department, the infected individual visited the following locations on Thursday, October 24:
- San Francisco International Airport (SFO): International Terminal G, between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
- 99 Ranch Market: 1688 Hostetter Road, San Jose, between 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.
- H Mart: 1527 N. First Street, San Jose, between 2:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.
These time windows account for the time the individual was present plus two hours after their departure, which is the duration the virus can remain airborne in a room.
What to Do If You Were Present
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that measles is a highly infectious respiratory disease that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
If you were at these locations during the specified times, health officials recommend:
- Check your immunization records: Most people who are fully vaccinated against measles with two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine are protected.
- Monitor for symptoms: Watch for fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a characteristic rash. Symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure but can take up to 21 days to manifest.
- Contact a healthcare provider: If you develop symptoms, call your doctor before arriving at a clinic or emergency room. This allows the facility to take precautions to prevent the spread of the virus to other patients.
Why Measles Remains a Public Health Concern
While measles was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, cases continue to occur due to international travel and pockets of low vaccination coverage. According to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), the MMR vaccine is approximately 97% effective at preventing measles after two doses.
The current situation in Santa Clara County highlights the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates to prevent community transmission. Unlike some other respiratory viruses, measles is so contagious that up to 90% of unvaccinated people close to an infected person will become infected.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I am immune to measles?
You are generally considered immune if you have written documentation of two doses of the MMR vaccine, laboratory evidence of immunity, or if you were born before 1957.
Can I get vaccinated after being exposed?
The CDC states that the MMR vaccine can provide some protection if administered within 72 hours of exposure. Consult with a healthcare provider immediately to determine if post-exposure prophylaxis is appropriate for your situation.
Is it safe to visit these locations now?
Yes. Public health officials confirm that there is no ongoing risk of measles transmission at SFO, 99 Ranch Market, or H Mart related to this specific case. The virus does not survive for long periods on surfaces.
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