Traveler at Japan’s Kansai International Airport Confirmed Infected with Measles Amid Health Alerts
Earlier this month, it came to my attention that anyone who visited Osaka’s primary international airport should monitor their health in the coming weeks.
A woman from Aichi Prefecture began showing symptoms of measles on February 14. As Valentine’s Day celebrations unfolded, this was a disappointing turn rather than a celebration, marked by feverish feelings.
Her symptoms escalated to include a rash, cough, and intestinal inflammation. Following a medical examination, the Osaka Prefectural government confirmed her measles infection on February 21.
This woman, in her 20s and vaccinated against measles twice in the past, is currently hospitalized and on the road to recovery. Concern arose because she traveled overseas via Kansai Airport, which ranks among Japan’s busiest international gateways, before her diagnosis.
On the same day she exhibited initial symptoms, she took a bus from Nagoya Station to Kansai Airport, leaving around noon and arriving at approximately 3:30 p.m.
After spending about two and a half hours in Terminal 1, which serves both domestic and international flights, her travels continued.
It was noted that she had recently returned from Vietnam, justifying her presence in Terminal 1 again on February 21 from about 4 to 6 p.m. That evening, she arrived at the Hatago Inn Kansai Airport, a hotel situated in Izumisano City, remaining there from about 10:30 p.m. to noon the following day.
What’s notable is that this marks the second confirmed measles case within Osaka Prefecture for the year. Coincidentally, another case was also reported on February 21, involving a girl under 10 years old.
This child exhibited a fever, cough, and rash, lacking any measles vaccination history. Health officials traced her contact to the Lalaport Kadoma/Mitsui Outlet Park Osaka Kadoma shopping center in Kadoma City on the evening of February 15 and to the Hanaten branch of drugstore Matsumoto Kiyoshi in Osaka City on February 17, providing clear times of exposure.
After exposure to the virus, symptoms of measles can take up to three weeks to appear. As such, health authorities advise anyone who frequented Kansai Airport or visited the mentioned locations during the dates specified to remain vigilant regarding their health.
They should seek medical attention promptly if they begin experiencing any symptoms including fever, cough, or rashes.
Key Details
- Date of Initial Symptoms: February 14
- Confirmation of Measles Diagnosis: February 21
- Locations of Interest:
- Kansai Airport (Feb 14 and Feb 21)
- Hatago Inn Kansai Airport (Feb 21 evening)
- Lalaport Kadoma shopping center (Feb 15)
- Matsumoto Kiyoshi drugstore (Feb 17)
Recommendations
- Monitor health for three weeks post-exposure.
- Consult a healthcare professional if symptoms arise.
- Remain aware of potential transmission in crowded locations.
This situation highlights the importance of vigilance and community awareness.
Especially in busy travel hubs and public spaces.
Read Also:
A Hidden Cafe in Tokyo’s Haneda Airport: A Secret Spot with Amazing Eats and No Crowds
Haneda Airport’s Must-Buy Japanese Sweet: Rum Dorayaki and Other Top Traditional Treats to Take Home
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