Health Authorities Issue Warning on Possible Measles Exposure at Dulles and Reagan Airports

Virginia health officials warn of possible measles exposure at Dulles and Reagan National airports.

On Saturday, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) reported a confirmed case of measles tied to an individual who had traveled through Northern Virginia after returning from overseas.

According to the department, If you were at IAD’s international arrivals area between 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. on Jan. 3 or at DCA’s Terminal A between 2:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. on Jan. 4, you may have been exposed.

“Health officials are coordinating an effort to identify people who might have been exposed, including contacting potentially exposed passengers on specific flights,” the VDH said in a press statement.

Measles is a contagious virus transmitted through the air by sneezing or coughing. Early signs include fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes, followed by a rash of tiny red spots starting on the head and spreading to the body, according to the CDC.

The agency stated that the virus lingers in the air for up to two hours after an infected person is present. Symptoms emerge 7-14 days post-exposure, with the rash appearing 3-5 days later.

The VDH highlighted the risk for measles among the unvaccinated and infants too young for the vaccine, urging heightened caution.

“Anyone who was exposed and is at risk of developing measles should watch for symptoms until January 25, 2024,” the department said. “If you notice the symptoms of measles, immediately isolate yourself by staying home and away from others. Contact your healthcare provider right away. Call ahead before going to your healthcare provider’s office or the emergency room to notify them that you may have been exposed to measles and ask them to call the health department.”