HONOLULU — A child under 5 on Oʻahu has been diagnosed with measles, according to the Hawaiʻi Department of Health (DOH). This unvaccinated child recently traveled internationally and has developed measles symptoms, including fever, cough, and a rash. Fortunately, the child is recovering at home, and health officials are investigating to identify anyone who may have been exposed.
If you visited any of these locations at the specified times, you may have been exposed:
- Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)
- C gates, customs, and baggage claim on March 30 from 10:50 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Terminal 2 for Delta flight 309 to Atlanta on April 4 from 1 to 7 p.m.
- Mānoa Valley District Park art class on April 1 from 9 to 10 a.m.
- Queen’s Island Urgent Care Kapahulu on April 4 from 8 a.m. to noon.
Health officials are notifying airlines and airports involved, while also reaching out to individuals known to have had contact with the child.
If you were at these locations, here’s what you need to know:
- Not vaccinated? If you haven’t received the measles vaccine (MMR), you may be at risk. Contact your healthcare provider right away; there are ways to prevent measles if you act quickly.
- Monitor your health. Watch for symptoms for three weeks after your last potential exposure. If you notice any symptoms of measles, isolate yourself and seek medical advice.
- Immunocompromised? Those with weakened immune systems should consult their healthcare provider immediately.
- Vaccinated? If you’ve had two doses of the MMR vaccine or were born before 1957, you’re likely protected.
- Only one dose? If you received just one dose of the MMR vaccine, it’s advisable to get a second dose to maximize your immunity.
Measles is highly contagious and can spread through the air or direct contact with an infected person. An infected individual can spread measles from four days before the rash appears to four days after. The virus can linger in the air for up to two hours after someone leaves the room.
Common symptoms include a high fever, runny nose, watery eyes, and coughing, which appear 7 to 14 days after exposure. A rash often follows within a few days.
The best way to protect against measles is through vaccination. The MMR vaccine is given in two doses, with the first typically delivered between 12-15 months of age and the second between 4-6 years. If you plan to travel, ask your healthcare provider if you need an earlier vaccine dose.
According to the CDC, a significant rise in measles cases has been reported across the U.S. since 2021, highlighting the importance of vaccination. Staying updated on your vaccinations can help avoid outbreaks like this one.
If you think you’ve been exposed to measles and aren’t vaccinated, contact your healthcare provider. They may recommend the MMR vaccine or immune globulin treatment, depending on when you were exposed. If unable to reach your provider, you can call the DOH Disease Reporting Line at 808-586-4586.
While there is no specific treatment for measles, supportive care can relieve symptoms. Make sure to stay hydrated and rest. For more information on measles and vaccination, visit the CDC’s measles website or check the vaccine provider tool.
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