RICHMOND, Va.— The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has confirmed a case of measles at Washington Dulles International Airport, prompting health officials to issue an alert for travelers who may have been exposed.
The exposure occurred on Wednesday, March 5, between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. in Terminal A, during the transportation to the main terminal, and in the baggage claim area. The individual who was diagnosed with measles had recently returned to the United States after international travel. VDH is currently working to identify and reach passengers on specific flights who may have been exposed to the contagious virus.
Measles is known to be highly contagious, spreading easily through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or breathes. The illness typically develops in two stages. In the first stage, which usually begins about 14 days after exposure, individuals may experience:
- A fever higher than 101°F
- Runny nose
- Watery, red eyes
- Cough
Around three to five days after these symptoms start, the second stage begins, marked by a rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.
The VDH has also clarified that individuals infected with measles are contagious from four days before the rash appears until four days after the rash develops.
Health Recommendations
For those who may have been exposed at Dulles Airport or are concerned about their risk, the VDH has provided several key recommendations:
- Anyone who has not received a measles-containing vaccine may be at risk and should contact their healthcare provider for guidance.
- Individuals who were exposed should monitor for symptoms through March 26. If symptoms develop, they are urged to self-isolate at home and immediately contact a healthcare provider. It is important to notify the provider about possible measles exposure before visiting their office or an emergency room.
- People with weakened immune systems should seek advice from their healthcare provider if they have concerns or experience symptoms.
The VDH noted that people who have received two doses of the measles vaccine or were born before 1957 are considered protected and do not need to take further action. Those who have received only one dose are generally well-protected, but getting a second dose is recommended for full immunity.
For more details or questions regarding potential exposure, the public can visit the VDH website or reach out to their healthcare provider.
