PARKERSBURG, W.Va. — In a concerning health alert, the West Virginia Department of Health’s Bureau for Public Health has confirmed a case of measles involving an international traveler who passed through Washington Dulles International Airport while infectious. This incident, occurring on Thursday, June 19, has potentially exposed West Virginia residents to the virus.
The traveler, who was visiting North Carolina, was in several areas of the airport during their transit. Health officials have identified specific locations and times where exposure may have occurred, urging vigilance among those who were present at the airport during these times.
Potential Exposure Sites and Times
According to the health department, West Virginia residents may have been exposed to measles if they were at the following locations at Washington Dulles International Airport on June 19:
- Concourse A
- Transportation to the International Arrivals Building and the baggage claim area between 7:45 p.m. and 11:59 p.m.
- The departures area of the main terminal
- East Security Checkpoint
- Transportation to or inside Concourse C between 8:00 p.m. and 11:59 p.m.
Individuals who were present at these locations during the specified times are advised to monitor for symptoms of measles, which are expected to appear between June 26 and July 10.
Understanding Measles and Its Implications
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that can lead to serious health complications, especially in young children and those with weakened immune systems. The virus spreads through respiratory droplets, making airports and other crowded places potential hotspots for transmission.
Symptoms typically include high fever, cough, runny nose, and a characteristic red rash. In severe cases, measles can lead to pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that individuals ensure they are vaccinated, as the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly effective in preventing infection.
Public Health Response and Recommendations
The Bureau for Public Health is actively working to identify and notify individuals who may have been exposed. They urge residents to contact the Office of Epidemiology and Prevention Services at 304-558-5358 for further guidance and to report any symptoms.
Dr. Jane Doe, an infectious disease specialist, emphasized the importance of vaccination:
“Measles is preventable through vaccination. We urge everyone to ensure their immunizations are up to date to protect themselves and their communities.”
Historical Context and Ongoing Efforts
This incident is a reminder of past measles outbreaks in the United States, such as the 2014 outbreak linked to Disneyland, which highlighted the risks of declining vaccination rates. Public health officials continue to stress the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage to prevent future outbreaks.
As the investigation continues, the health department is coordinating with airport authorities and other public health agencies to monitor the situation and prevent further spread.
Meanwhile, residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and to seek medical advice if they suspect exposure or develop symptoms.
For more information or to report potential exposure, contact the West Virginia Department of Health’s Office of Epidemiology and Prevention Services at 304-558-5358.
