A case of measles was confirmed in Howard County, Maryland, marking the state’s first case of the year.
The resident who contracted the virus recently traveled internationally. This case is not related to the measles outbreak in West Texas, where officials have reported two deaths and over 200 positive cases.
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Health officials are warning those who traveled through the Dulles International Airport’s international arrivals section between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. on Wednesday, March 5, that they may have come in contact with the virus. Those who were at Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center Pediatric Emergency Department on Friday, March 7, between 3:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. were also warned they may have come in contact with the deadly illness.
Virginia public health officials said people at those locations were not fully vaccinated against measles, which is typically administered as a child with the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella Vaccine, and should contact their healthcare providers and watch themselves for symptoms. Symptoms include a fever of more than 101 degrees Fahrenheit, runny nose, cough, and red eyes. A red rash will appear on an infected person’s face and body within four days.
People who are vaccinated are generally safe, as two doses provide lifetime protection from the deadly virus.
Measles is a highly contagious virus. Up to 90% of unvaccinated people will contract measles if exposed. A little under 93% of people in the United States are vaccinated against measles.
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The virus was declared eliminated from the U.S. two decades ago due to vaccine initiatives but has risen as anti-vaccine sentiment has increased in recent years.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a 95% vaccination threshold must be reached to achieve herd immunity. Vaccination is the most effective form of prevention from contracting measles.