Measles Exposure Alert: International Traveler Confirmed Case in Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. health officials have issued a public health alert following the confirmation of a measles case linked to an international traveler. The individual arrived at Dulles International Airport (IAD) on June 8 and afterward traveled through the city, potentially exposing others to the highly contagious virus.

Measles Exposure Locations and Times

The D.C. Department of Health has released a list of locations and times where potential exposure occured. If you were present at these locations during the specified times, health officials urge you to take precautions.

• Dulles International Airport (IAD), Concourse A: June 8, 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
• Washington Metro Silver Line and Red Line: June 8,11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
• Russian School of Mathematics (Chevy Chase, MD): June 8, 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
• L8 Metrobus (Southbound to Friendship Heights): June 8, 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
• H4 Metrobus (Westbound to Tenleytown): June 12, 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
• Medstar health Pediatrics (Tenleytown): June 12, 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Did You Know? Measles was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, but outbreaks still occur due to international travel and decreased vaccination rates.

What to Do If You Were Exposed

If you were at any of the listed locations during the specified times, follow these guidelines:

• Contact yoru healthcare provider or D.C. Health at 844-493-2652 for guidance if you are not immune to measles.
• Monitor for measles symptoms for 21 days after potential exposure if unvaccinated. Symptoms include high fever, runny nose, bloodshot eyes, and a rash that starts on the face and spreads downwards [[3]].
• Isolate yourself immediately and contact your healthcare provider if you develop symptoms.Call ahead to notify them of potential measles exposure.
• Individuals who have received two doses of a measles-containing vaccine or were born before 1957 are generally considered protected.
• If you’ve only had one dose of the vaccine, consult your doctor about getting a second dose for full immunity.
• Individuals with immunocompromising conditions should seek advice from their healthcare provider.

Understanding Measles: Transmission and Symptoms

Measles is a highly contagious airborne disease that spreads through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.The world Health Organization (WHO) estimates that there were 10.3 million cases of measles worldwide in 2023,a 20% increase from 2022 [[2]].

Initial symptoms typically appear 10-14 days after infection and include high fever, runny nose, bloodshot eyes, and small white spots inside the mouth [[3]].A rash develops several days later, starting on the face and upper neck before spreading downwards [[3]].

Pro Tip: Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles. The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella) is safe and highly effective.

Measles Complications and Prevention

While often considered a mild illness, measles can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, diarrhea, ear infections, encephalitis (brain inflammation), blindness, and even death [[1]]. According to the WHO, postinfectious encephalitis occurs in approximately one in every 1,000 reported cases [[1]].

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that children receive two doses of the MMR vaccine: the first at 12-15 months of age and the second at 4-6 years of age. Adults who are not immune should also get vaccinated.

Questions about measles

What are the long-term effects of measles? How can I protect my family from measles?

Disclaimer: This article provides general details and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

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