Virginia Health Officials Issue Warning After Possible Measles Exposure at Dulles and Reagan Airports

Virginia health officials have issued a warning to travelers who passed through Dulles International Airport on January 3 and Reagan National Airport on January 4, as a person who returned from international travel was diagnosed with measles. The Virginia Department of Health is urging unvaccinated travelers who were at these airports during the specified times to be vigilant for signs of measles.

Measles symptoms typically occur in two stages. The initial stage, which begins seven to 14 days after exposure, includes a fever of 101 degrees or higher, along with a runny nose, watery red eyes, and a cough. After these initial symptoms, a rash appears on the face and spreads across the body.

Measles is highly contagious and can be transmitted through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), if one person has measles, up to 90% of those in close proximity who are not vaccinated can become infected.

As of January 4, the CDC reported a total of 48 measles cases in 20 U.S. jurisdictions. The CDC recommends two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine, which is approximately 97% effective in preventing measles. While about 95% of kindergartners in Virginia have been vaccinated, infants under 12 months are too young for vaccination.

The Virginia Department of Health advises unvaccinated individuals to monitor for symptoms until January 25. If symptoms appear, it is essential to isolate and seek immediate medical attention. Measles is a highly contagious disease, and public health officials are working diligently to contain any potential outbreaks.