Virginia health officials have confirmed the state’s first measles case of 2025.The individual, a child between 0 and 4 years old residing in the Virginia Department of Health’s (VDH) Northwest region, contracted the virus following international travel. The VDH Northwest region includes Fauquier and Stafford counties, along with areas south and west of Prince William County.

Potential Exposure Sites Identified

The VDH has identified two locations as potential exposure sites:

• Advanced urgent care clinic at the Kaiser Permanente Caton Hill Medical Center, 13285 Minnieville Road, Woodbridge. The child was present on tuesday, April 15, from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
• Kaiser Permanente Fredericksburg Medical Center’s pediatrics department, 1201 Hospital Drive, Fredericksburg. The child was present on Wednesday, April 16, from noon to 5 p.m.

Public Health Response

Health officials are actively working to identify individuals who might potentially be at risk of contracting measles due to this case. This first case of measles in Virginia this year is a reminder of how easily this highly contagious disease can spread, particularly with international travel, said Dr. laurie Forlano, VDH State epidemiologist.

Dr. Forlano emphasized the importance of vaccination: Vaccination remains our best defense against measles and is safe and highly effective at protecting people and preventing outbreaks. We urge virginians, especially those planning to travel, to check their vaccination status, talk to their health care provider, and get the MMR vaccine if needed.

What to Do If You Were Possibly Exposed

Individuals who have not received a measles-containing vaccine, such as the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, may be at risk. Anyone who might have been exposed and is considered to be at risk of developing measles should contact their healthcare provider promptly, according to the VDH.

Understanding Measles Symptoms

Measles is highly contagious and spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. Symptoms typically appear in two stages:

• First Stage: Fever (greater than 101 degrees Fahrenheit),runny nose,watery red eyes,and cough. Thes symptoms usually start 7 to 14 days after exposure.
• Second Stage: A rash begins to appear on the face and spreads to the rest of the body, starting three to five days after the initial symptoms.

Individuals with measles are contagious from four days before the rash appears through four days after the rash appears.

Important precautions

If you notice symptoms of measles, immediately isolate yourself by staying home and contacting a healthcare provider. Call ahead before going to a healthcare provider’s office or the emergency room to notify them of potential measles exposure. This will help protect other patients and staff.

Additional Guidance from the Health Department

• Individuals with immunocompromising conditions should consult with their healthcare provider if they have questions or develop symptoms.
• Those who have received two doses of a measles-containing vaccine or were born before 1957 are generally considered protected.
• Individuals who have received only one dose of a measles-containing vaccine are likely protected,but should contact their healthcare provider about getting a second dose for maximum protection.
• Infants 6 months through 11 months of age traveling internationally or to an outbreak setting should receive one dose of MMR vaccine prior to travel.

Where to Find More Information

For more information about measles, visit www.vdh.virginia.gov/measles/. Virginia residents with additional questions can email epi_response@vdh.virginia.gov or contact their local health department.