Measles Exposure Warning in W.Va
- – The West Virginia Bureau of Public Health has issued an alert following a potential measles exposure incident.
- The potential exposure site is identified as terminal A of the airport, specifically during transportation to the main terminal and the baggage claim area.
- If you were in Terminal A of Washington Dulles International Airport between 4 p.m.
Measles Exposure Alert Issued in West Virginia Following Airport Incident
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The West Virginia Bureau of Public Health has issued an alert following a potential measles exposure incident. Health officials believe some West Virginians may have been exposed to measles after a Maryland resident, infected with the illness, traveled through Washington Dulles International Airport on march 5, 2025.
Possible Exposure Site and Timeline
The potential exposure site is identified as terminal A of the airport, specifically during transportation to the main terminal and the baggage claim area. This occurred between the hours of 4 p.m. and 9 p.m.
If you were in Terminal A of Washington Dulles International Airport between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. on March 5, 2025, monitor yourself for measles symptoms until March 26, 2025.
measles Symptoms to Watch For
The department of Health advises individuals who may have been exposed to watch for symptoms.The initial stage of measles frequently enough presents with:
- Fever greater then 101 degrees fahrenheit
- Runny nose
- Cough
- Watery, red eyes
These symptoms typically appear seven to 14 days after exposure.
Rash Development
Following the initial symptoms, a rash may develop three to five days later. This rash typically begins on the face and then spreads to the rest of the body.
Contagious Period
According to the Department of Health,”People with measles are contagious from four days before the rash appears through four days after the rash appeared.”
The Highly Contagious Nature of Measles
kanawha County Health Officer, Dr. Steven Eshenaur, emphasized the highly infectious nature of measles, noting that its spread to several states bordering West virginia underscores its contagiousness.
A room with 10 people, nine out of 10 woudl likely contract the disease because it is spread so easily through the air. Even after a person leaves a room, measles can be spread for hours possibly later, just from it lingering in the air.
Dr. Steven eshenaur,Kanawha County Health Officer
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) confirms this,stating that measles can live for up to 2 hours in an airspace after an infected person leaves an area.
Importance of Immunization
Dr. Eshenaur highlighted West virginia’s high immunization rates as crucial in preventing a measles outbreak.
So, it’s really important not to buy into unscientific data that says that you could treat this disease with vitamin A, when in fact, it does not work for the treatment or prevention of measles.
Dr. Steven Eshenaur, Kanawha County Health Officer
He cautioned against relaxing current immunization laws, stating:
If we do relax our immunization laws, our population will likely become susceptible to measles outbreaks as we have seen in the other states.
Dr. Steven Eshenaur, Kanawha County Health Officer
Vulnerable Populations
Dr. Eshenaur stressed that children and pregnant women are notably vulnerable to the severe effects of measles if unvaccinated.
Measles can cause irreparable damage to an unborn child, so it’s really important that women be protected from contracting measles.
Dr. Steven Eshenaur, Kanawha County Health Officer
Debunking Misinformation
Dr. Eshenaur firmly stated that remedies such as cod liver oil, vitamin A, and dietary changes are ineffective in treating or preventing measles.
Measles Exposure in West Virginia: Q&A to Keep You Informed
Following a recent measles exposure incident at Washington Dulles International airport on March 5, 2025, the West Virginia Bureau of Public Health has issued an alert. Here’s a comprehensive Q&A to help you understand the situation,protect yourself,and stay informed.
Q: What happened?
A Maryland resident infected with measles traveled thru Washington Dulles International Airport on March 5, 2025, potentially exposing other travelers.
Q: Where and when was the potential exposure?
The potential exposure site was Terminal A of Washington Dulles International Airport, specifically during transportation to the main terminal and the baggage claim area. This occurred between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. on March 5, 2025.
Q: What should I do if I was at Washington Dulles Airport, Terminal A, on March 5, 2025, between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m.?
Monitor yourself for measles symptoms until March 26, 2025.
Q: What are the symptoms of measles?
The initial symptoms of measles typically include:
Fever greater than 101 degrees Fahrenheit
Runny nose
Cough
Watery, red eyes
A rash usually develops three to five days after the initial symptoms. It typically starts on the face and then spreads to the rest of the body.
Q: How long after exposure do measles symptoms appear?
Symptoms usually appear seven to 14 days after exposure.
Q: How contagious is measles?
Measles is highly contagious. According to Kanawha County Health Officer, Dr. Steven Eshenaur, in a room with 10 people, nine out of 10 would likely contract the disease.
Q: How is measles spread?
Measles is spread easily through the air. Even after a person leaves a room, the virus can linger and spread for up to 2 hours. The CDC confirms this, stating measles can live for up to 2 hours in an airspace after an infected person leaves.
Q: When is someone with measles contagious?
People with measles are contagious from four days before the rash appears through four days after the rash has appeared.
Q: If I think I have measles, what should I do?
Contact your doctor immediately. It’s vital to call ahead so they can take precautions to avoid exposing other patients.
Q: Is there a treatment for measles?
While there is no specific antiviral treatment for measles, supportive care can help manage symptoms. This includes rest, fluids, and fever reducers.
Q: Why is vaccination important?
Dr. Eshenaur highlights West Virginia’s high immunization rates as crucial in preventing a measles outbreak. Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and others from measles.
Q: Does Vitamin A prevent or treat Measles?
Dr. Eshenaur firmly stated that remedies such as cod liver oil, vitamin A, and dietary changes are ineffective in treating or preventing measles. Getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent the spread of Measles.
Q: Who is most vulnerable to measles?
Children and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to the severe effects of measles if unvaccinated. Measles can cause irreparable damage to an unborn child.
Q: What are the complications of measles?
Measles complications can be severe, especially in young children and adults. These can include:
Pneumonia (lung infection)
Encephalitis (brain swelling)
Ear infections
Diarrhea
In pregnant women, measles can cause premature birth, miscarriage, or low birth weight
Q: Where can I get vaccinated against measles?
Contact your primary care physician, local health department, or pharmacy to inquire about measles vaccination (MMR vaccine).
Q: Is there any reason to believe that West Virginia’s high immunization rates are important?
Dr.Eshenaur cautions against relaxing current immunization laws, stating that doing so would likely make the population susceptible to measles outbreaks.
Key Measles Details at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|——————–|————————————————————————-|
| Exposure Site | Dulles International Airport, Terminal A |
| Date & Time | March 5, 2025, 4 p.m. – 9 p.m. |
| Symptoms | Fever, runny nose, cough, watery eyes, rash |
| Contagious Period| 4 days before rash to 4 days after rash |
| Prevention | MMR Vaccine |
| High Risk | Unvaccinated children and pregnant women |
The information provided in this Q&A is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice.It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.