Health officials confirm measles exposure at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport Terminal 4 on June 10, 2025

Exposure window set for Terminal 4 concourses beyond security

Public health officials in Maricopa County reported that a person infectious with measles was present at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, creating a potential exposure for travelers and airport workers.

The exposure location was identified as Terminal 4, beyond the security checkpoints, in Concourses C and D. The exposure date was Tuesday, June 10, 2025, with a time window from 5 p.m. to midnight. The published window accounts for measles virus persistence in the air after an infectious person leaves an area.

How notifications and follow-up are handled

Health authorities indicated they were coordinating with airport, state, and federal partners to reach potentially exposed individuals. In routine practice, passengers who shared a flight with a confirmed measles case are contacted directly through public health channels using available passenger information. People who were in the affected airport areas during the exposure window may not receive individual notification and are advised to self-monitor.

What measles is and who faces higher risk

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads through the air and through direct contact with respiratory droplets. Symptoms typically begin with fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes, followed by a characteristic rash. Illness can be severe, particularly for infants and young children, pregnant people, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

• Typical symptom onset: about 7 to 14 days after exposure; in some cases, it can take up to 21 days.
• Early symptoms: high fever, cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis; a rash generally appears later.

Recommended actions for travelers who may have been exposed

Health officials advised anyone who was in Terminal 4 beyond security in Concourses C or D during the stated period to watch for symptoms and to contact a healthcare provider promptly if symptoms develop. People seeking medical evaluation are advised to call ahead before arriving so clinics can take steps to reduce the risk of further exposure in waiting rooms.

People who may have been exposed are generally advised to monitor for symptoms for up to 21 days after the last possible exposure.

Vaccination and post-exposure options

Measles is preventable through vaccination. In the United States, the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is used; two doses are considered highly effective at preventing measles. For some susceptible people with recent exposure, post-exposure measures may be considered in clinical settings, including MMR vaccination shortly after exposure or immune globulin within a limited timeframe for certain high-risk individuals.

Public health officials urged residents to review their immunization status and discuss vaccination questions with a healthcare provider, particularly for those who are unsure whether they have received recommended MMR doses.