Photo: WBZ NewsRadio Archive
BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — Public health officials reported a person with measles was at Boston Logan Airport’s Terminal C on April 14.
According to the Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC), the traveler arrived at Logan on JetBlue flight 470 from Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. between 12 a.m. and 2:30 a.m. The person left Logan in a private vehicle and traveled out of state.
Health officials said anyone who was at Logan Terminal C during that time frame on April 14 is at risk of possible exposure, urging unvaccinated individuals who may have been exposed to contact their healthcare providers.
Max from Boston, flying to Florida, says it's one of the risks of traveling.
"You can't check everybody. You don't know who's flying where, who's got what. It's kind of the risk you take when you travel through an airport. It's definitely a little scary, but at the end of the day, you can't really do much about it," he said.
Robert from San Francisco is a little less forgiving about the issue.
"Measles is insane," he said. "You should just stay home. Just skip spring break. If you're going for a lot of beer, just stay home."
He says it's all about personal responsibility and suggested wearing a mask to protect those around you. Meanwhile, health officials say those who may have been exposed last week and are unvaccinated should contact their health care provider.
“This case of measles underscores the continued importance of obtaining the MMR vaccine,” Dr. Bisola Ojikutu, Commissioner of Public Health for the City of Boston, said in a statement. “This vaccine is the best tool we have to protect ourselves and our communities from serious illness.”
Symptoms of measles include cough, high fever, runny nose, and red, watery eyes, followed by a red, blotchy rash that spreads from the face to the rest of the body.
The current number of confirmed measles cases in Massachusetts remains at two. There are no other exposure points in Boston.
Officials said they are working with local partners to notify anyone who may have been exposed.