The Virginia Department of Health has confirmed its first measles case for the year. The patient, under four years old from the Northwest Region, had recently traveled internationally and developed the illness.
According to Meredith Robinson with VDH, it’s not uncommon for individuals who have traveled abroad to contract measles after returning to Virginia. The state has a high vaccination rate against measles, which significantly reduces the risk of transmission to the public.
Measles is a highly contagious illness that spreads through airborne transmission when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms include fever, runny nose, watery eyes, and a cough, typically appearing within seven to fourteen days after exposure. The rash, which begins on the face and spreads across the body, appears three to five days later.
Robinson emphasizes that vaccination is the best prevention measure against measles. Two doses of MMR vaccine are 97% effective in providing lifetime immunity. Infants face the highest risk from measles, making it crucial for parents to ensure their infants receive the vaccine on time. Families traveling abroad with young children can also consider a single dose of MMR to protect them.
Potential exposure sites in Virginia have been identified by VDH, as the state has reported recent outbreaks in certain areas.
Source: https://wset.com/news/local/virginia-health-department-reports-first-measles-case-of-2025-april-2025