The Maryland Department of Health and Montgomery County health officials have announced a positive case of measles in Montgomery County. The individual had recently traveled internationally. Officials have identified specific locations and times where potential exposure may have occurred, including Washington Dulles International Airport International Terminal on Jan. 27 from 6-9:30 a.m., Claridge House at 2445 Lyttonsville Rd., Silver Spring on Jan. 27 from 7:30-10 a.m. and 6 p.m.-1 a.m., and Jan. 29 from 7-10 a.m., and Suburban Hospital Emergency Department on Jan. 27 from 7-11 p.m.
Early symptoms of measles include a fever of over 101 degrees Fahrenheit, runny nose, cough, and red, watery eyes. The appearance of a red rash on the face and later on the body usually occurs one to four days after the early symptoms.
Individuals are typically considered immune to measles if they have received two measles vaccine shots, had measles previously, or were born in the U.S. before 1957.
Public health officials advise individuals, especially those who are not vaccinated or otherwise immune to measles, to monitor themselves for any early symptoms of measles for 21 days after potential exposure. Those who develop a fever or other symptoms of measles should refrain from attending childcare, school, work, or public spaces, and should contact their healthcare provider. It is recommended to call the healthcare provider first before visiting the office in order to take necessary measures to prevent the spread of the disease to other patients.
For more information about measles, visit the Maryland Department of Health website.
