Breaking News: Oregon Health Authority Reports First Measles Case of 2025 – What You Need to Know!

The Oregon Health Authority has identified the state’s first measles case of 2025. An adult, who recently traveled internationally and is unvaccinated, returned to Oregon and started showing symptoms like a sore throat, weakness, and fever on June 16.

Health officials have alerted the community about potential exposure. If you were at Portland International Airport between 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on June 17 or the Lake Oswego Safeway on A Avenue between 1 p.m. and 3:20 p.m. on June 22, you could be at risk.

Dr. Paul Cieslak, a medical director at OHA’s Public Health Division, highlighted the contagious nature of measles. An infected person can spread the virus before a rash appears, and symptoms can linger for days. “People often don’t realize they are spreading the virus,” Cieslak noted, stressing the importance of vaccinations.

Measles spreads easily through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The Oregon Health Authority notes that the virus can remain in the air for up to two hours after someone leaves an area. This poses a significant risk, especially given that Oregon has a high rate of nonmedical vaccine exemptions in kindergarten.

Cieslak expressed concern that the disease could spread beyond the Portland area but reassured that vaccinated individuals are less likely to be affected. He urged anyone who thinks they’ve been exposed to contact their healthcare provider promptly. The infected person has been hospitalized but is recovering.

Interestingly, data shows that vaccine rates have fluctuated in recent years. According to the CDC, measles cases surged by over 300% in various parts of the U.S. just last year. Experts emphasize that the best defense against measles is vaccination.

Health officials are keeping a close watch as they investigate this case. With community transmission of measles, it’s a reminder that being informed and vaccinated can help protect not just ourselves but those around us. For more detailed information about measles, you can visit the CDC’s measles information page.

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Health | Public Health | Oregon Health Authority