Health Department Warns of Possible Measles Exposure

The Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services (Health Department) warns public of possible case of measles in an individual who traveled through Long Beach Airport (LGB) on two separate occasions while infectious. 

This person departed from LGB from Gate 11 on Saturday, March 30, 2019, at 6:40 a.m. on JetBlue flight 1136, and again departed from LGB from Gate 7 on Sunday, April 7, 2019, at 6:40 a.m. on the same flight, JetBlue flight 1136. Individuals present at LGB on March 30, 2019, or April 7, 2019, between 6 a.m. and 8 a.m. may be at risk of developing measles due to exposure to this traveler. Passengers present on the same flights as this individual will be contacted separately if they may have been exposed during the flight. 

Measles can spread through coughing and sneezing. Symptoms of measles often begin with fever, runny nose, cough, and red eyes, followed by a rash that spreads all over the body. The rash will usually appear 10 to 21 days after a person is exposed. Individuals who may have been exposed at LGB on March 30, 2019, and have not exhibited symptoms by April 20, 2019, will no longer be considered at risk of acquiring measles. Individuals who may have been exposed at LGB on April 7, 2019, and have not exhibited symptoms by April 28, 2019, will no longer be considered at risk of acquiring measles.

There is currently no ongoing risk related to measles at LGB. Only those who were present at the airport during the specific times stated may be at risk of developing the disease, especially if they have weakened immune systems or have not been immunized against measles.

“Given the recent increase of measles cases both nationally and globally, the best way to protect against becoming infected is by getting immunized,” said Anissa Davis, MD, MPH, Long Beach City Health Officer. “Talk to your provider to make sure you are up to date with your measles vaccinations. People who may have been exposed to measles and have not been immunized may receive measles immunization to protect against becoming infected in the future.” 

Anyone who thinks they may have measles should contact their provider’s office or emergency department by phone. People are advised not to show up at a medical facility without prior notification, as this could increase potential exposure to the public.

For more information on measles, please visit www.longbeach.gov/measles.