Measles Case Confirmed in Oʻahu Visitor

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The Hawaiʻi Department of Health has confirmed a case of measles in a vaccinated adult visitor to Oʻahu. The visitor had recently arrived from a region of the continental U.S. with known measles transmission and became ill after arrival. The DOH is investigating potential exposures at several locations on Oʻahu and Hawaiʻi Island.

Why it matters

Measles is one of the most contagious viruses, and outbreaks can pose a serious public health threat, especially for unvaccinated individuals. This case highlights the importance of vaccination and the need for vigilance in monitoring and containing the spread of measles, even among vaccinated populations.

The details

The visitor had recently arrived in Hawaiʻi from a region of the continental United States with known measles transmission. After arrival, the visitor became ill, sought medical care, and is now recovering at a private residence on Oahu. The DOH is investigating the case to identify those who might have been exposed and is working with them to prevent the spread of disease.

• On February 26, the visitor was at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) from 12:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.
• On February 27, the visitor was at the Lāʻie Mormon Temple from 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
• On March 3, the visitor was at the Hilo International Airport from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and at the Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
• On March 3, the visitor was at the Hilo Siam Thai Restaurant from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
• On March 4, the visitor was at the Hilo International Airport from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

What’s next

The DOH is reaching out directly to individuals who had known contact with the confirmed or suspected case, and a medical advisory will be issued to healthcare providers statewide.