Health officials in Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia are sounding the alarm regarding potential measles exposure following the identification of two confirmed cases in the region. These recent cases are separate from a previously confirmed case in Howard County that was reported nearly two weeks ago, bringing the total to three cases within the area for the month of March.
Like the confirmed case from March 5, the two new cases were identified in individuals who traveled internationally and returned to the United States through Dulles International Airport. Officials from the Maryland Department of Health have stated that both individuals who tested positive for measles are residents of Prince George’s County. After their arrival at Dulles, they visited several locations where others may have been exposed.
Health authorities have compiled a list of places and times where potential exposure to measles may have occurred. If you visited any of the following locations during the specified hours, you might have been at risk:
Washington Dulles International Airport: Concourse A, transportation to the International Arrivals Building (IAB), and baggage claim area on March 5 from 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Kaiser Permanente Largo Medical Center, 1221 Mercantile Ln, Upper Marlboro: March 5, 7:30 p.m. - March 6, 4:30 a.m. March 13, 4:15 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. March 15, 7:45 a.m. - 3:15 p.m. March 17, 2:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport: Terminal Shuttle Bus on March 14 from 12:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Washington Metro Area Transit: Yellow Line Train from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport station, transferring at L’Enfant Plaza station to the Silver Line Train heading towards Downtown Largo station on March 14 from 12:15 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. Passport Toyota, 5001 Auth Way, Suitland on March 17 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.In light of these findings, health officials are emphasizing the importance of vaccination. Measles is known to be one of the most contagious diseases globally. Dr. Lucia Donatelli from the Maryland Department of Health reassures the public that vaccinated individuals should not panic. “Getting measles in the United States is primarily a risk for those who are unvaccinated,” she explains. “It is crucial to ensure that your vaccinations are up to date.”
Dr. Donatelli highlights the effectiveness of the measles vaccine, stating, “One dose is 93 percent effective, while two doses increase effectiveness to 97 percent.” She urges everyone, especially those planning to travel overseas, to confirm their vaccination status against measles before departing.
Early symptoms of measles include fever, runny nose, watery red eyes, and a cough. Following these initial symptoms, a rash typically appears on the face and subsequently spreads across the body. If you suspect you may have been exposed to measles, it is vital to contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Dr. Donatelli reiterates, “The best way to protect yourself from measles is by getting vaccinated.” Stay informed and take the necessary precautions to ensure your health and the health of those around you.
