Measles case confirmed in Washington, DC
A confirmed case of measles in Washington, D.C. is currently under investigation by health officials after the infected person visited several locations in the district. The DC Department of Health issued a press release late Tuesday morning warning the public of potential exposure to the highly contagious virus.
According to the release, individuals who were at the following locations in the district during the specified times may have been exposed to measles:
– Amtrak Northeast Regional 175 Train (Southbound): March 19, 7:30 p.m. through 1:30 a.m.
– Amtrak Concourse, Union Station: March 19, 11:00 p.m. through 1:30 a.m.
– MedStar Urgent Care, Adams Morgan: March 22, 7:00 p.m. through 11:00 p.m.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure and may include a fever over 101°F, cough, runny nose, and red or watery eyes. The most characteristic symptom of measles is a rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body, appearing 3 to 5 days after the onset of symptoms.
Infected individuals can spread measles up to four days before the rash appears and for up to four days afterward. If you believe you have been exposed to measles or were present at one of the locations identified by the DC Department of Health, it is recommended to monitor for symptoms for 21 days after exposure. If you are in Washington, D.C., contact a doctor or DC Health at 844-493-2652 for further guidance. Those who develop symptoms are advised to stay home and avoid contact with others.
Maryland also reported its first confirmed case of measles in a traveler at the Baltimore airport on March 10. The virus has been circulating throughout the Northeast this winter, leading to an increase in cases.
It is important to note that individuals who have received two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine or were born before 1957 are considered protected against measles. Those with only one dose of the vaccine may still be protected but could consider receiving a second shot for full immunity. Infants under 12 months old and unvaccinated individuals are at the highest risk for contracting measles.
Measles outbreaks have been reported across the country this season, with Texas confirming 327 cases as of March 25, resulting in 40 hospitalizations. The CDC has reported a total of 378 cases nationwide as of March 20.
Measles is a preventable disease with the MMR vaccine, which provides lifelong protection with two doses. It is crucial for individuals to stay up to date on their vaccinations to help prevent the spread of measles and protect themselves and others from this highly contagious virus.
