Published on: December 23, 2025, 01:35h. 

Updated on: December 23, 2025, 01:35h.

Health officials in Las Vegas are warning travelers on Tuesday regarding a possible measles exposure at Harry Reid International Airport. The Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD) reported that an infected individual was present at the airport on Saturday, December 13, between 12:30 a.m. and 2:30 a.m. This out-of-state traveler was near Gate D1 shortly after arriving on a flight around midnight.

Given that measles is one of the most infectious respiratory diseases, SNHD is urging anyone who was in the D gate area during that two-hour timeframe to be alert about their potential exposure.

This virus can remain airborne for up to two hours after an infected person departs, meaning that travelers might be at risk without having direct contact.

Symptoms of measles generally manifest 7 to 21 days following exposure. Initial symptoms often include fever, cough, nasal congestion, and red or watery eyes. The characteristic measles rash usually surfaces one to four days after these early symptoms.

“Individuals showing symptoms should stay at home, avoid public places, and contact a healthcare provider beforehand to ensure precautions are taken to prevent further exposure,” health officials advised.

Those suspecting they may have been exposed are encouraged to check their vaccination status. Health authorities continue to stress the significance of vaccination, highlighting that the MMR vaccine—effective against measles, mumps, and rubella—is both safe and highly efficient. Receiving two doses leads to approximately 97% immunity against measles.

According to SNHD, maintaining up-to-date vaccinations remains one of the most effective strategies for preventing outbreaks and protecting the wider community.

If individuals develop symptoms such as fever or a rash, SNHD suggests contacting a healthcare provider to facilitate the necessary safety measures during their visit. They also recommend remaining home and avoiding public areas to minimize the risk of virus transmission.

This is the second warning regarding measles exposure associated with Harry Reid International Airport in recent months, following an unrelated alert issued in October.

Additionally, SNHD has confirmed the first measles case in a Clark County resident since 2018.

Measles Symptoms

Symptoms usually appear 7 to 21 days after exposure and may include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red or watery eyes
• Rash (typically appearing 1–4 days after the initial symptoms)
• Measles can transmit from four days prior to the rash until four days after

Who’s Most Vulnerable?

While complications can occur in healthy individuals, certain groups are at a higher risk:

• Individuals who have never been vaccinated
• Children under five
• Pregnant women
• People with compromised immune systems

Vaccination Facts

• The MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine is regarded as safe and efficient.
• Two doses offer approximately 97% protection against measles.
• Staying current with vaccinations is the best method for preventing outbreaks and safeguarding public health.