Health officials across the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area have issued a warning about measles exposure after two confirmed cases were identified in the region. The two cases are not connected to the previously reported case in Howard County, bringing the total number of cases in March to three.
The new cases involve individuals who traveled internationally and arrived at Dulles International Airport before being tested positive for the disease. Both individuals visited multiple locations during their stay, including Washington Dulles International Airport, Kaiser Permanente Largo Medical Center, and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.
Residents who visited these locations during specific time periods may have been exposed to measles. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local health authorities are urging people to take precautions if they think they may have been exposed.
According to Dr. Lucia Donatelli of the Maryland Department of Health, vaccination is key in preventing measles. She notes that two doses of the vaccine are 97% effective against the disease, with one dose being 93% effective. Early symptoms include fever, runny nose, watery red eyes, and cough, followed by a rash.
Residents who think they may have been exposed to measles should contact their doctor immediately. Officials also advise people planning international travel to ensure they are vaccinated against the disease.
Source: https://www.fox5dc.com/news/health-officials-across-dmv-issue-exposure-warnings-after-2-confirmed-cases-measles