Measles on a Plane

Passengers on a flight from San Diego to Hawaii were expecting to have a safe flight followed by, hopefully, some relaxing time in Hawaii. Instead, they were exposed to measles.

Measles is a highly contagious disease and is characterized by the famous rash that first develops on the face and head, spreading downward to the torso and arms.

The San Diego Union-Tribune reported that an 11 month old child from San Diego is under isolation at a military base until the risk of infection subsides, in 3-4 more days.

The origin of the infection believed to be from a visit to a pediatric clinic in La Jolla. San Diego County has reported 5 cases of measles, in 2008.

Travelers on the plane, as well as those at the gate, are at risk for contracting measles if not properly immunized. The MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine is commonly given to children over the age of 12 months. The 11 month old child was not able to receive the vaccine.

Any person who is believed to have been in contact with measles should visit their doctor.