Measles Case Confirmed in Northern Virginia: Exposure Locations and What to Know
Arlington, VA – The Virginia department of Health (VDH) has confirmed a case of measles in a child under four years old in Northern Virginia. The case is unrelated to a previously reported case earlier in January, according to health officials. this confirmation prompts a public health alert, especially for individuals who may have been exposed at specific locations during the period of January 13th to 18th.
The affected child recently traveled internationally and is believed to have contracted the virus while abroad. Public health authorities are actively working to identify and notify individuals who may have come into contact with the child during their visits to the following locations:
* PM Pediatric Urgent Care – woodbridge: 2690 Prince William Parkway, Woodbridge, VA. Potential exposure occurred on Tuesday, january 13th, between 4:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
* Inova Children’s Emergency Department – Falls Church: 3300 Gallows Road, falls Church, VA.Potential exposure occurred on Thursday, January 15th, from 7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.,and again on Friday,January 16th,from 8:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
* Inova Fairfax Hospital Women’s and Children’s Building – Falls Church: 3300 Gallows Road, Falls Church, VA (Floors 2-10). Potential exposure occurred from Saturday, January 17th, at 2:30 a.m. to Sunday, January 18th, at 5:00 p.m.
What You Shoudl Do If You Were Potentially Exposed
Individuals who were present at any of the listed locations during the specified times are urged to contact their healthcare provider.It is crucial to inform your doctor of the potential measles exposure. Healthcare professionals can assess your risk and determine if testing or other preventative measures are necesary.
Understanding Measles: Symptoms and Prevention
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can spread easily through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms typically begin 7-14 days after exposure and may include:
* High fever
* Cough
* Runny nose
* Watery eyes
* tiny white spots inside the mouth (Koplik’s spots)
* A full body rash that appears 3-5 days after initial symptoms
The most effective way to protect yourself and your family from measles is through vaccination. The centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that children receive two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine.
Resources for More Facts
For extensive information about measles, including symptoms, prevention, and vaccination guidelines, please visit the following resources:
* Virginia Department of Health: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/measles/
* Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): https://www.cdc.gov/measles/index.html
Health officials continue to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as thay become available. The VDH emphasizes the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of this highly contagious disease and protecting the health of the community.