Massachusetts' health department warns residents about possible measles exposures in multiple locations

Rick Sobey, Boston Herald on Dec 24, 2025

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BOSTON — An out-of-state adult visitor who spent time in the region earlier this month has been diagnosed with measles, according to health officials who are warning the public of possible exposures in multiple locations.

The visitor arrived at Boston Logan airport on American Airlines flight 2384 from Dallas-Fort Worth on Dec. 11 at 2:39 p.m., according to the Department of Public Health.

The person stayed at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Boston-Westborough and left the state on Dec. 12 via Logan airport at 9:19 p.m. on JetBlue flight 117 to Las Vegas.

DPH said it’s working with the CDC and local partners to identify and notify those who may have been exposed to measles from this individual.

“Measles is a highly contagious, airborne disease, which has increased significantly in the United States because of the unfortunate decrease in vaccination rates. It is also a preventable disease,” said Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein. “This current situation serves as an important reminder of the critical role vaccination plays in protecting our communities.

“While Massachusetts has not had a measles case this year, 2025 saw the highest number of nationwide cases in more than a decade – nearly 2,000 in 44 jurisdictions, and sadly, three deaths,” Goldstein added. “Fifteen years ago, measles had been considered eliminated in the United States, but that tremendous progress is at risk. Vaccines are one of the most important public health interventions ever – they are safe, effective, and lifesaving.”

People who are not immune and visited any of the locations on the following dates and times may be at risk for developing measles.

— Logan Airport Terminal B, from 2:30 p.m. to 4:45 p.m., on Dec. 11

— DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Boston-Westborough, between 3:30 p.m. on Dec. 11 and 9 p.m. on Dec. 12

— Logan Airport Terminal C, from 6 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., on Dec. 12

Those who could have been exposed and begin to develop symptoms of measles should call their healthcare provider before visiting an office, clinic, or emergency department.

Visiting a healthcare facility may put others at risk and should be avoided if possible.

Anyone who has had measles in the past or has received two doses of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine is unlikely to develop measles even if exposed.

Early symptoms of measles occur 7 to 21 days after exposure and may resemble a cold (with fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes). A rash occurs on the skin 2 to 4 days after the initial symptoms develop. The rash usually appears first on the head and then moves downward. The rash typically lasts a few days and then disappears in the same order.

People with measles may be contagious up to four days before the rash appears and for four days after the rash appears.

“This case is a reminder that everyone should be vaccinated against measles to protect themselves and others from this highly infectious disease,” said Bisola Ojikutu, Commissioner of Public Health for the City of Boston. “With multiple measles outbreaks across the country and increased travel around the holidays, now is an important time to ensure that you and your family are protected.

“Two doses of MMR vaccine are 97% effective at preventing measles and provides protection against mumps and rubella infection,” the commissioner added. “Children should receive the vaccine at 12-15 months of age and again before kindergarten to ensure strong immunity. Children who are at least 6 months old who are traveling internationally or to areas of the US with active outbreaks should receive an early dose of vaccine before traveling. It is never too late for children or adults to get the measles vaccine even if they are past the recommended age.”

According to the CDC, a total of 1,988 measles cases have been reported in 44 jurisdictions across the country this year.

The majority were unvaccinated or had unknown vaccination status (93%), 3% had one dose of the MMR vaccine, and 4% had two doses. There have been three confirmed deaths in the U.S. from measles this year.

Due to the increase in measles cases nationally, DPH urges anyone who has not been vaccinated or does not know their measles immunization status to contact their healthcare provider to get vaccinated with at least one dose of the MMR vaccine. Measles vaccine given within 72 hours of exposure may prevent measles disease. Vaccination beyond this window will provide protection from subsequent exposures.

Health care providers who suspect measles should call DPH at 617-983-6800 immediately for recommendations and testing guidance. Providers in Boston should call the Boston Public Health Commission at 617-534-5611.

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