Measles Exposure Alert: West Virginia Health Officials Monitoring Potential Cases After International Traveler incident
health officials are on high alert following a potential measles exposure at Washington Dulles International airport. Residents are urged to monitor for symptoms.">
Charleston, W.Va. – The West Virginia Bureau Of Public Health is alerting residents to a potential measles exposure following an incident involving an international traveler. The traveler, infected with measles, arrived at Washington Dulles International Airport on June 19th, prompting health officials to initiate monitoring and contact tracing efforts.
Possible Exposure Locations
Health officials have identified specific locations within the airport where potential exposure may have occurred.These locations include Concourse A, focusing on transportation routes to the International Arrivals Building and the baggage claim area, between 7:45 p.m. and 11:59 p.m.Another possible exposure site is the departures area of the main terminal,particularly the East Security Checkpoint,also between 8:00 p.m. and 11:59 p.m. on that Thursday.
The West Virginia Department Of Health is proactively working to identify and inform individuals who may have been in these areas during the specified times.
Monitoring for symptoms: what To Watch For
The Department Of Health advises that those who were present in the mentioned areas should closely monitor themselves for symptoms from June 26 to July 10, 2025. Early detection is crucial in managing the spread of measles.
According to health officials,the initial symptoms often manifest as a fever exceeding 101 degrees fahrenheit,accompanied by a runny nose,cough,and watery,red eyes. These symptoms typically emerge within seven to 14 days following exposure.
Pro Tip: Keep a daily log of your temperature and any symptoms. This will be valuable data for healthcare providers if you need to seek medical attention.
Do you know the difference between measles and chickenpox? Share your knowledge in the comments!
Seeking Information and Support
West Virginia residents seeking additional information or having concerns about potential exposure are encouraged to contact the Office Of Epidemiology And Prevention Services at 304-558-5358.Health officials are prepared to answer questions and provide guidance.
This recent potential exposure marks the first notable incident in West Virginia as 2009, when the West Virginia Department of Health (DH) confirmed the state’s first positive case, leading to the identification of 152 potentially exposed individuals, including 128 West Virginia residents from 30 counties and 24 out-of-state contacts from four neighboring states.
measles: Key Facts
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that can lead to serious complications, especially in young children and immunocompromised individuals. Vaccination remains the most effective preventive measure.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes the importance of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is highly effective in preventing measles. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles; one dose is about 93% effective.
| Symptom | Description | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Fever | temperature above 101°F | 7-14 days post-exposure |
| Runny Nose | Increased nasal discharge | 7-14 days post-exposure |
| cough | Persistent cough | 7-14 days post-exposure |
| Watery, Red Eyes | Conjunctivitis | 7-14 days post-exposure |
Did You Know? Measles was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, thanks to widespread vaccination efforts. However, outbreaks can still occur when the virus is brought in by unvaccinated travelers.
Are you up-to-date on your vaccinations? What steps do you take to protect yourself and your family from infectious diseases?
Understanding Measles: An Evergreen Viewpoint
Measles remains a significant public health concern globally, despite being preventable. The World Health organization (WHO) reports that measles cases have been rising in recent years due to gaps in vaccination coverage. Understanding the disease, its transmission, and preventive measures is crucial for maintaining community health.
Vaccination not only protects individuals but also contributes to herd immunity, safeguarding those who cannot be vaccinated, such as infants or individuals with certain medical conditions. Staying informed about vaccination schedules and recommendations is essential for preventing outbreaks.
Frequently Asked questions About Measles
- What is measles?
- Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that can cause severe health complications.
- How is measles spread?
- Measles spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
- Is there a treatment for measles?
- There is no specific treatment for measles, but supportive care can definitely help manage the symptoms.
- How effective is the measles vaccine?
- Two doses of the MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles.
- Who should get the measles vaccine?
- The CDC recommends that all children get two doses of the MMR vaccine, starting with the first dose at 12 through 15 months of age, and the second dose at 4 through 6 years of age.
Stay informed, stay vigilant, and share this crucial information to help protect our community. Any thoughts or comments?
