Notes from the Field: Measles Transmission in an International Airport at a Domestic Terminal Gate--April-May 2014

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases
• Vaccinology

Background:

• Measles is a highly contagious viral illness preventable by vaccination.
• The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is a primary tool for measles prevention.
• Understanding transmission risks is crucial for public health interventions, especially during travel.

Observation:

• A 19-month-old child with documented measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination at 12 months developed measles.
• The child traveled internationally from India to the United States, with subsequent domestic travel.
• Measles symptoms appeared during air travel, potentially exposing other passengers.

Findings:

• Clinical diagnosis of measles was confirmed by laboratory testing (polymerase chain reaction and immunoglobulin M serology).
• The infectious period for measles overlaps with air travel, posing a risk for in-flight transmission.
• Despite potential exposures on two flights, no secondary cases were documented.

Implications:

• This case highlights the importance of vaccination, even with one dose, in preventing severe illness.
• It underscores the need for robust public health surveillance and contact tracing for infectious diseases in travelers.
• Effective public health responses can mitigate transmission risks associated with international travel, even in the presence of vaccine-preventable diseases.