Measles Alert in the District: What You Need to Know

A new measles case has been confirmed in the District. The person who tested positive for the measles had been in several places around the city. The D. C. Department of Health is warning the public about potential exposure sites. These locations include two Amtrak spots and an urgent care center. The person with measles traveled around the District in the last week. The health department has identified specific times and dates when the public might have been exposed. For example, anyone on the Amtrak Northeast Regional 175 Train Southbound on March 19th, between 7:30 p. m. and 1:30 a. m. , could have been exposed. The same goes for those at the Amtrak Concourse, Union Station, on March 19th, from 7 p. m. to 11 p. m. Another potential exposure site was the MedStar Urgent Care in Adams Morgan on March 22nd, from 7 p. m. to 11 p. m. The health department is urging people to be cautious. Anyone who was at these places during the specified times and is not immune to measles should contact their healthcare provider or D. C. Health for advice. The number to call is 844-493-2652. This alert comes after Maryland reported three measles cases in Howard and Prince George’s counties.

The District has seen measles before. There was a case reported in July 2024. Measles is a highly contagious disease that spreads through the air. It can be passed on when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. Symptoms usually start to show after about a week. They can include high fevers, runny noses, watery eyes, and tiny white spots in the mouth. The measles rash is a key symptom. It starts on the face and then spreads to the rest of the body. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that measles is very contagious. If one person has it, up to 9 out of 10 people nearby can get infected if they are not protected. The best way to protect against measles is by getting the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. The details of the latest measles case are still unclear. It is unknown if international travel is linked to this case. The public is encouraged to stay informed and take necessary precautions. This includes getting vaccinated if they haven't already. The health department's alert serves as a reminder of the importance of vaccination and staying vigilant against contagious diseases.

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