Alaska Man Contracts Measles on Flight from Seattle

A measles case has been reported in Alaska after an unvaccinated man flew into Anchorage from Seattle and later visited a hospital in Homer. The infected individual, who is now isolated at a local hospital, was infectious on the January 10 flight.

According to state health officials, the man was traveling back home from an overseas trip and may have exposed others at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport between 8-10 pm that night. Measles is a highly infectious airborne disease with symptoms such as fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes, sore throat, and rashes.

The Centers for Disease Control describe measles as a viral respiratory illness. A vaccine, commonly known as the MMR vaccine, was developed in 1963 and can prevent the disease. If you suspect you may be infected, contact your healthcare provider.

A public health alert has been issued to warn others of the potential risk, and the infected individual is receiving medical attention at Providence Alaska Medical Center.

Source: https://www.alaskasnewssource.com/2025/01/17/measles-case-reported-alaska-seattle-flight