7th Measles Case Reported In King County

SEATTLE — The seventh case of measles exposure in King County lists Seattle Children's Hospital and a Kent-area Fred Meyer as possible exposure sites while the infected patient was contagious, according to county health officials.

The patient, a child and King County resident, is currently receiving care at Seattle Children's Hospital; hospital staff are notifying individuals who may have been exposed at the hospital. It's unclear how many people may have been exposed at Fred Meyer.

The source of the child's measles is unknown at this time, health officials said in a statement released early Friday evening. The case is being investigated to determine not only the source but also whether this seventh case is linked to any previous cases.

"The continued occurrence of measles cases in King County means we face an ongoing risk of outbreaks among people who don’t have immunity,” said Seattle & King County Health Officer Jeff Duchin. "Measles vaccine is safe, effective, and offers excellent protection. If you aren’t sure if you’re up to date with the recommended doses of measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine (MMR), see your health care provider and get a dose of MMR if needed."

Latest instances of potential exposure are listed below:

• June 19, between 6:45 and 9:45 p.m., at the Fred Meyer located at 25250 Pacific Hwy. S. in Kent;
• June 23, between 12:45 and 2:45 a.m. at the Seattle Children's Hospital Emergency Department, 4800 Sand Point Way N.E.;
• June 26, between 2:30 and 4:30 a.m., and again between 1:10 and 3:10 p.m., at Seattle Children's.

Anyone who was at the locations listed at the associated times may have been exposed to measles.

If you develop an illness with fever or illness with an unexplained rash, call a health provider immediately.

For more information on measles, visit kingcounty.gov/measles.