(Scypre.com) – Health officials in Washington, D.C. are sounding the alarm for thousands of individuals who may have been exposed to measles, following the confirmed case of an individual who traveled through two major airports in the region after returning from an international trip.
The potential exposure took place at Dulles International Airport’s main terminal in the international arrivals area on Wednesday, Jan. 3, spanning from 4 to 8 p.m.
Subsequently, the individual passed through terminal A at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport the following day, from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. DC Health, upon receiving notification of the confirmed measles case, issued a statement acknowledging the situation and emphasizing the low risk of transmission.
However, as a precautionary measure, the health department is reaching out to residents who were present at the specified locations to inform them of the potential exposure.
Days before DC Health’s advisory, the Virginia Department of Health had already issued a similar warning, shedding light on the highly contagious nature of measles. The virus can easily spread through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes.
According to the Virginia Department of Health, the symptoms of measles usually appear in two stages. In the initial stage, individuals may experience a fever of greater than 101 degrees, along with a runny nose, watery red eyes, and a cough. These symptoms typically manifest 7 to 14 days after exposure.
The second stage, occurring 3 to 5 days after symptoms start, brings about a rash on the face that subsequently spreads to the rest of the body. Measles-infected individuals are contagious from 4 days before the rash appears through 4 days after.
Despite efforts to contain the virus, it remains unclear which airline the individual with measles was traveling on. Both health agencies are advising anyone who may have been exposed and is at risk of developing measles to remain vigilant for symptoms until Jan. 25. In case symptoms arise, individuals are urged to immediately isolate themselves by staying at home and away from others.
Additionally, contacting healthcare providers promptly is essential. It is recommended to call ahead before visiting a healthcare provider’s office or the emergency room, notifying them of potential measles exposure and requesting them to contact the health department. This precautionary measure aims to protect other patients and healthcare staff.
In light of the ongoing situation, health authorities are emphasizing the importance of public awareness and cooperation to curb the potential spread of measles within the community.