Measles Alert: Possible Exposure at Dulles Airport (April 23-24)
Virginia health officials investigate measles exposure at Dulles Airport.
Top Summary
- What happened: A confirmed measles case traveled through Dulles International Airport on April 23rd and 24th, potentially exposing others.
- Why it matters: Measles is highly contagious. Exposure can lead to infection, especially for unvaccinated individuals.
- What changes for people: Unvaccinated individuals who were at Dulles during the specified times should contact their healthcare provider.
- Who is affected: Potentially affected are travelers at Dulles Airport's Concourse B, transportation to baggage claim, and the baggage claim area between 10:30 p.m. April 23 and 1:30 a.m. April 24.
Measles Exposure at Dulles Airport
The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is investigating a possible measles exposure at Washington Dulles International Airport.
The potential exposure occurred on Thursday, April 23 and Friday, April 24.
A person with a confirmed case of measles traveled through the airport during this time.
Exposure Locations and Times
The VDH has identified specific locations and times of potential exposure:
- Dulles International Airport (IAD):
- Concourse B
- Transportation between the concourse and baggage claim
- Baggage claim area
- Between 10:30 p.m. Thursday, April 23 and 1:30 a.m. Friday, April 24.
Other exposure sites will be listed on the VDH website.
Who is at Risk?
Those who have not received a measles-containing vaccine may be at risk of developing measles.
Individuals with only one dose of vaccine are likely protected, but should consider a second dose.
Those born before 1957 or who have received two doses of a measles vaccine are considered protected.
What to Do If You Were Exposed
Anyone who was exposed and considered to be at risk of developing measles should contact their healthcare provider immediately.
Watch for symptoms and isolate yourself by staying home if you notice any.
Contact your healthcare provider right away and call ahead before going to notify them that you may have been exposed to measles.
This allows them to prepare and protect other patients and staff.
Vaccination Information
MMR vaccine rates are high in Virginia, with approximately 95% of kindergarteners fully vaccinated against measles.
This high vaccination rate helps prevent major outbreaks.
If you have not yet received a measles-containing vaccine, contact your healthcare provider.
What to Watch Next
The VDH will likely release further information as the investigation progresses, including additional exposure sites if identified. Monitor the VDH website for updates and follow public health recommendations to prevent the spread of measles.