Traveler With Measles Sparks Airport Alert

A passenger on a JetBlue flight from Fort Lauderdale to Boston was diagnosed with measles after arriving at Logan Airport. Health officials say anyone who spent time in Terminal C between midnight and 2:30 a. m. on April 14 could have been exposed. The individual left the airport in a private car and headed out of state, so no other Boston locations are known to have been affected. Because the airport is usually quiet overnight, officials believe most contacts happened on the plane. Massport noted that terminals are cleaned regularly and will increase cleaning if needed. They are working with local partners to identify and notify potential contacts.People who were not vaccinated and may have been exposed should contact a health provider right away. They must also stay home from schools, work, public transit and stores for 21 days, until May 5. Vaccinated people face a low risk of catching measles. This incident follows two other confirmed cases in Massachusetts this year. Experts warn that declining vaccination rates leave more people vulnerable to the highly contagious virus, which starts with flu‑like symptoms and a characteristic rash. Measles spreads easily through coughs, sneezes or contact with contaminated surfaces within two hours of exposure. Early detection and vaccination are key to preventing outbreaks.