Washington, D.C. – Health officials in the nation’s capital have issued an alert after a confirmed case of measles in an international traveler led to potential exposure at Dulles International Airport and on the metro.
The infected individual arrived at Dulles International Airport on June 8 around 10:30 a.m.. Possible exposure sites include Concourse A, on transportation to the International Arrivals Building, and in the baggage claim area from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The traveler then took the Silver Line train from Dulles Airport Station, transferred at the Metro Center Station to the Red Line train heading towards Shady Grove Station from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Measles is a highly contagious viral respiratory disease that spreads easily through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. Symptoms typically develop in two stages. The first stage begins seven to 14 days after exposure, with symptoms like a fever over 101 degrees, a runny nose, red watery eyes, and a cough. The second stage, three to five days after the initial symptoms, involves a rash that appears on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.
Health officials advise that anyone who has never received a measles – containing vaccine and may have been exposed should contact their healthcare provider immediately. People should watch for symptoms for 21 days after their potential exposure date and stay home if symptoms develop. If symptoms appear and medical care is needed, call ahead before visiting the doctor or emergency room to inform them of the possible exposure and ask them to contact the local health department. However, anyone who has received two doses of a measles – containing vaccine or was born before 1957 is generally protected from the illness and does not need to take immediate action, though those with immuno – compromising conditions should consult their healthcare providers.
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