Maryland Resident Diagnosed With Measles Following International Travel

Public health officials have confirmed that a Maryland resident who recently traveled internationally has been diagnosed with measles. The individual may have exposed others to the virus at Washington Dulles International Airport and a medical facility in Washington, D.C., on June 17, 2024. According to the District of Columbia Department of Health (DC Health), the risk to the general public remains low for those who are fully vaccinated against the virus.

Where and When Did Exposures Occur?

The Maryland Department of Health and DC Health have identified two specific locations where potential exposure occurred on June 17. Individuals who were present at these sites during the specified times should monitor themselves for symptoms:

• Washington Dulles International Airport: The individual arrived at the international arrivals area between 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.
• Mary’s Center Adams Morgan Clinic: The individual visited this facility, located at 2333 Ontario Road NW, Washington, D.C., between 4:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Officials are currently working to contact individuals who were known to be in these areas at the same time. If you believe you were exposed, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends calling a healthcare provider before visiting a clinic to prevent further spread in waiting rooms.

Why Is Measles Considered High Risk?

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can remain suspended in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected person has left the area. According to the CDC, the virus is so transmissible that if one person has it, up to 90% of the people close to that person who are not immune will also become infected.

Common Symptoms to Watch For

Symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure. Early signs often mimic a common cold or flu, making it difficult to distinguish without medical testing. Watch for these indicators:

• High fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
• A characteristic rash that typically appears three to five days after symptoms begin

How Can You Protect Yourself?

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles infection. The Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly effective; two doses provide approximately 97% protection against the virus. The CDC recommends that children receive their first dose between 12 and 15 months, and a second dose between 4 and 6 years of age.

If you are unsure of your vaccination status, you can check your records through your primary care provider or your state’s immunization registry. Adults who have not been vaccinated or have not had measles in the past are encouraged to consult their physician about receiving the vaccine, especially before international travel.

Public Health Response and Monitoring

This case serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage within communities. While measles was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, international travel frequently leads to imported cases. According to data from the CDC, the majority of measles cases in the U.S. occur in individuals who are unvaccinated or under-vaccinated. Public health departments in both Maryland and D.C. continue to monitor for additional cases and are providing guidance to local healthcare providers to ensure rapid identification of potential secondary infections.