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yesterday

US Measles Cases Surge Past 1,000 as Officials Warn of New Exposure Sites

Officials tracking infections from a Turkish Airlines flight into Denver alongside Bay Area retail exposures call for prompt MMR vaccination.

A sign reading "measles testing" is seen as an outbreak in Gaines County, Texas, has raised concerns over its spread to other parts of the state, in Seminole, Texas, U.S., February 25, 2025. REUTERS/Sebastian Rocandio/File Photo
Trader Joe’s at 1306 Great Mall Parkway in Milpitas, Calif.
Starbucks at 35040 Newark Blvd. in Newark, Calif.
Measles virus particle, illustration. This virus, from the Morbillivirus group of viruses, consists of an RNA (ribonucleic acid) core surrounded by an envelope studded with surface proteins haemagglutinin-neuraminidase and fusion protein, which are used to attach to and penetrate a host cell. Measles is a highly infectious itchy rash with a fever. It mainly affects children, but one attack usually gives life-long immunity.

Overview

  • Colorado health officials linked a vaccinated adult’s breakthrough infection and an unvaccinated toddler’s hospitalization to Turkish Airlines flight 201 from Istanbul that landed at Denver International Airport on May 13.
  • Santa Clara and Alameda County agencies identified H Mart in San Jose (May 21), a Starbucks in Newark (May 23) and a Trader Joe’s in Milpitas (May 25) as possible exposure locations after an adult returning from overseas tested positive.
  • The CDC reports more than 1,000 measles cases across 33 states this year, with West Texas accounting for over 700 cases, 94 hospitalizations and two child fatalities among the unvaccinated.
  • Federal health authorities warn travelers remain at heightened risk of infection in airports, on public transportation and at crowded events, and recommend full MMR vaccination at least two weeks before departure.
  • Health agencies emphasize that two doses of MMR vaccine are about 97% effective and advise anyone potentially exposed to monitor for fever, cough, rash or red eyes for up to 21 days and to contact a provider if symptoms develop.