Confirmed Measles Case in Valley Emergency Department

We are responding to a confirmed case of measles in the Emergency Department at our Renton hospital location. The patient was seen in our Emergency Department on Sunday evening, Oct. 26, between 8:10 PM and 12:05 AM. He was taken to a private room about six minutes after his arrival, and he was wearing a medical mask during his entire visit. His measles test came back positive the next day.

Our top priority is the safety of our patients, staff, and visitors. We understand this may be concerning and are working closely with public health officials and taking all necessary precautions.

Valley Medical Center and Public Health-Seattle & King County are working together to identify people who may have been exposed to measles. We will contact you with more information if we believe you were exposed.

If you think you’ve been exposed to measles, first find out if you have immunity against measles. This means you have been vaccinated for measles or have had measles previously. Call your healthcare provider if you develop symptoms such as a fever or rash.

To prevent possible spread to other people at the healthcare facility, do not go in person without calling first. Wear a well-fitting mask when you go.

Measles usually starts with a fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. These symptoms last for about 2 to 4 days. Then, a red, bumpy rash appears—first on the face and head, then spreading to the neck, body, arms, and legs.

We will continue to work to identify and notify anyone who has been exposed and will share any additional information as soon as it’s available.

Additional resources and information:

• Press release from Public Health – Seattle & King County
• King County Measles resources, including other exposure sites
• WA Dept. of Health exposure map
• CDC images of measles rash