The U.S. Embassy in Kuala Lumpur has issued a health alert concerning a Level 1 Global Travel Health Notice for measles, as announced by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC warns that measles remains an ongoing risk worldwide, with increasing numbers of international travelers contracting the disease.
Travelers are at risk of catching measles in various settings such as airports, train stations, public transportation, tourist attractions, and crowded events. The disease can be brought back to home communities by infected travelers, potentially leading to rapid spread among those who are not immune.
The embassy advises individuals to visit the CDC page on measles for further information regarding symptoms, prevention methods, and vaccinations. Travelers are also encouraged to consult local medical providers in Malaysia and check with their healthcare providers about travel plans and vaccination options.
Additionally, travelers should verify evacuation options with their travel insurance providers if they become ill overseas.
For assistance, contact details for the U.S. Embassy Kuala Lumpur are provided: phone number +603-2168-5000 or email KLACS@state.gov. Further information is available on the embassy's website at https://my.usembassy.gov.
The State Department's Consular Affairs can be reached at +1 (888) 407-4747 or +1 (202) 501-4444. Travelers are encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program at step.state.gov to receive security updates and follow the embassy on Facebook and Twitter/X for more information.