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The measles vaccine provides about 97 percent protection against measles. Photo: iStock
Three children tested positive for measles on Wednesday, Jan. 14 in Snohomish County and a measles outbreak has been declared by the The Snohomish County Health Department.
The measles virus is extremely contagious and can remain in the air for up to two hours after someone contagious with measles leaves an area. Anyone who was at the following locations during the times and dates listed may have been exposed:
- Jan. 9, 2026, 8:30 a.m.–5:15 p.m. — Pathfinder Kindergarten Center (Mukilteo School District), 11401 Beverly Park Rd., Everett
- Jan. 9, 2026, 8:30 a.m.–5:15 p.m. — Serene Lake Elementary School (Mukilteo School District), 4709 Picnic Point Rd., Edmonds
- Jan. 13, 2026, 1:10–3:10 p.m. — Swedish Mill Creek Campus medical facility, 13020 Meridian Ave. S., Everett
Most people in our area have immunity to the measles through vaccination (which provides about 97 percent protection against measles) so the risk to the general public is low. However, anyone who was in the locations of potential exposure to measles around the times listed above should:
- Find out if you have been vaccinated for measles or have had measles previously.
- Call a health care provider promptly if you develop an illness with fever or illness with an unexplained rash. To avoid possibly spreading measles to other patients, do not go to a clinic or hospital without calling first to tell them you want to be evaluated for measles. If you need to go to a healthcare facility, wear a well-fitting mask.
Those most at risk from exposure to measles are unvaccinated individuals, infants and children younger than 5 years, adults over 20 years, pregnant people and people with weakened immune systems from medications or underlying disease. For more information, and to learn more about measles and where to get vaccinated, visit the Snohomish County Health Department website.
