HOUSTON - The Houston Health Department has confirmed a case of measles in an unvaccinated traveler who passed through William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) while infectious on Sunday, March 30, 2025.
The individual, traveling from Mexico, was present in several locations within Hobby Airport between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. According to health officials, the traveler moved from the Western Concourse to Customs, then proceeded to baggage claim to retrieve luggage. Following this, the individual returned through security to the Central Concourse before checking in for a connecting flight to their final destination.
The Houston Health Department emphasizes that there are currently no other confirmed measles cases within the city and that this case is not connected to any local measles cases previously identified in the Greater Houston area.
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads easily through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Importantly, the virus can be transmitted even before symptoms appear. Individuals who were present at William P. Hobby Airport during the specified four-hour window may have been exposed to the virus.
The health department advises anyone who was at Hobby Airport on March 30, 2025, between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. to monitor their health closely for the next 21 days, which extends through April 20, 2025.
“If you were at Hobby Airport on March 30, 2025, between 4–8 p.m. and are concerned about possible exposure, please call your primary care provider before seeking in-person healthcare. Do not visit an emergency room unless you are experiencing symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, or a rash and have called ahead to allow them to prepare for your arrival,” urged Dr. David Persse, Chief Medical Officer for the City of Houston.
Dr. Persse further stressed the importance of vaccination as the most effective way to prevent measles and its potential complications. “The best protection against measles is vaccination. Measles can lead to serious complications, especially in young children and those with weakened immune systems. We urge everyone to check their immunization status and ensure they are up to date.”
The Houston Health Department encourages residents to learn more about measles symptoms, the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine, vaccination information, and the steps to take if they believe they may have been exposed. Additional information is available on the HoustonHealth.Org website or by calling 832-393-4220.
