Passenger on United flight to Fresno had measles, officials confirm

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — A passenger on a Fresno-bound flight was confirmed to be traveling with measles, according to Los Angeles County health officials.

The traveler was United Flight 5591, which departed Los Angeles at 8 p.m. on Sunday, May 19, and landed in Fresno at 9 p.m.

Their passenger, who was sick with measles, first began their journey in Munich, Germany, and later connected at LAX.

Anyone assigned a seat near this passenger on flights will be notified by health officials.

Measles is a highly contagious airborne disease that can cause serious illness, especially in young children.

The viral infection spreads easily through the air when an infected person breathes, talks, coughs, or sneezes.

Measles symptoms do not appear until 10 to 14 days after exposure. They include cough, runny nose, sore eyes, sore throat, fever, and a red, blotchy rash.

Measles is easily preventable with a vaccine.

Health officials encourage everyone to confirm their measles vaccination status with their healthcare provider.