Posted on: October 20, 2025, 05:19h. 

Last updated on: October 20, 2025, 05:19h.

A visitor at Harry Reid International Airport tested positive for measles on Monday, as reported by the Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD). The district cautioned that others might have been exposed to the virus during this time.

The infected individual, identity undisclosed, spent time in Terminal 3 at the E Gates before boarding an 8 a.m. flight. The report states that this person did not visit other locations in Las Vegas aside from the airport, indicating that they were merely passing through to connect flights.

Measles is an exceptionally contagious viral disease that can remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person departs. Individuals present in the same terminal during this time are encouraged to check their vaccination status and consult a healthcare provider if they lack full immunity.

This incident is the first recorded measles exposure in Nevada since April 2024, which also involved a traveling visitor. Notably, there was no local transmission reported. The last confirmed case involving a Nevada resident dates back to 2018, according to SNHD statistics.

As of October 14, the CDC has confirmed 1,596 measles cases across 42 states in the U.S.

In 2023, measles was responsible for approximately 107,500 deaths globally, predominantly impacting unvaccinated children under five. So far in 2025, three deaths have been linked to measles—two among school-aged children in Texas and one adult in New Mexico, resulting in a fatality rate of 0.19% (1.9 deaths per 1,000 cases). Notably, these are the first measles-related fatalities in the U.S. in over a decade.

Recognizing Measles Symptoms

Symptoms generally manifest between 7 to 21 days following exposure, including:

• Fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red eyes
• Rash (usually appears 1–4 days after initial symptoms)
• Measles can transmit from four days before a rash appears until four days afterward

Identifying High-Risk Groups

While complications may impact even healthy individuals, certain groups are at a higher risk:

• Children under 5
• Adults over 20
• Pregnant women
• Individuals with compromised immune systems

Essential Vaccine Information

• The MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine is both safe and highly effective
• Receiving two doses grants approximately 97% protection against measles
• Staying updated with vaccinations is crucial for preventing outbreaks and safeguarding public health

If you experience symptoms consistent with measles, it is advisable to contact a healthcare facility before visiting to prevent the risk of exposing others.