Measles Case Confirmed in Vaccinated Oahu Visitor, Hawaii Health Officials Alert Public
Hawaii health officials have confirmed a case of measles in a vaccinated adult visitor to Oahu, prompting a public health advisory. The visitor recently arrived in Hawaii from an area of the continental United States experiencing measles transmission and is currently recovering at a private residence on Oahu after seeking medical care.
Potential Exposure Locations and Dates
The Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) is investigating the case and has identified several locations where the public may have been exposed to measles. Individuals who visited the following locations during the specified times should be aware of potential risks:
Oahu
- Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL):
- Feb. 26, 12:30 p.m.–4 p.m. – A gates and baggage claim area
- Mar. 3, 9 a.m.–12:30 p.m. – Terminal 1 check-in, security, and A gates
- Mar. 4, 8:30 p.m.–11 p.m. – A gates and baggage claim area
- Lāʻie Mormon Temple: Feb. 27, 4:30 p.m.–9 p.m.
Hawaii Island
- Hilo International Airport:
- March 3, 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m. – Gate areas, baggage claim
- March 4, 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. – Check-in, security, and gate areas
- Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park: March 3, 12 p.m.–6 p.m. – Visitors Center, other attractions
- Hilo Siam Thai Restaurant: March 3, 5 p.m.–9 p.m.
Guidance for Potential Exposures
Health officials are providing guidance based on vaccination status:
Unvaccinated Individuals
If you have never received a measles-containing vaccine (MMR, MMRV, or measles-only vaccine), you are at risk. Contact your healthcare provider immediately. Vaccine or immune globulin can prevent measles if administered shortly after exposure. Monitor for symptoms for three weeks after your last exposure. If symptoms develop, isolate yourself and contact your healthcare provider, alerting them to potential measles exposure before your visit.
Immunocompromised Individuals
Individuals with weakened immune systems should consult their healthcare provider if they have questions or develop symptoms.
Vaccinated Individuals
If you have received two doses of a measles-containing vaccine, or were born before 1957, you are protected and no action is needed. If you have received only one dose, you are likely protected, but a second dose is recommended for complete immunity. Consult your healthcare provider.
Measles: Highly Contagious and How it Spreads
Measles is a highly contagious virus spread through direct contact with an infected person or through the air via coughs or sneezes. An infected person can spread the virus from four days before the rash appears until four days after. The virus can remain airborne for up to two hours in a closed room. Hawaii Department of Health
Symptoms of Measles
Symptoms typically appear 7-14 days after exposure and include:
- Fever greater than 101°F
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- Cough
- A rash that usually appears on the face and spreads to the rest of the body 3-5 days after symptoms begin.
Protect Yourself: Vaccination is Key
The most effective protection against measles is the MMR vaccine. All children should receive two doses: the first at 12-15 months and the second at 4-6 years. Adults born during or after 1957 should have documentation of at least one MMR vaccination or evidence of immunity through a blood test or prior illness. Hawaii Department of Health
Resources and Contact Information
If you believe you may have been exposed and cannot reach your healthcare provider, contact the DOH:
- Disease Reporting Line: 808-586-4586
- Disease Investigation Branch: 808-586-8362
For more information:
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