Measles Case in Northern Virginia: 3rd in State This Year

ARLINGTON, Va. (7News) – A child under 4 years old in Northern Virginia has tested positive for measles after international travel, health officials announced Tuesday, raising concerns about potential local spread of the highly contagious virus.

Measles Case Confirmed in Northern Virginia

Health officials are urging anyone who may have been exposed at three locations to contact their healthcare provider.

• A measles case has been confirmed in a child under 4 in Northern Virginia.
• The case is unrelated to a previous measles case reported earlier this month.
• Potential exposure locations include urgent care and hospital facilities in Woodbridge and Falls Church.
• The Virginia Department of Health encourages those possibly exposed to seek guidance from their healthcare provider.

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) confirmed the case Tuesday, noting it is separate from a previously reported case involving another young child on January 11. The child recently traveled internationally and may have exposed others at several locations between January 13 and January 18.

Did you know?– Measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, but outbreaks still occur, often linked to international travel and declining vaccination rates.

What should you do if you think you’ve been exposed to measles? Contact your local health officials instantly. Measles is incredibly contagious, and early detection is key to preventing further spread.

Exposure Locations and Dates

Individuals who visited the following locations during the specified times are advised to contact their healthcare providers:

• PM Pediatric Urgent Care, 2690 Prince William Parkway, Woodbridge
• Tuesday, January 13 from 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
• Inova Children’s Emergency Department, 3300 gallows Road, Falls Church
• thursday, January 15 from 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.
• Friday, January 16 from 8:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.
• Inova fairfax Hospital Women’s and Children’s Building, Floors 2-10, 3300 Gallows Road, Falls Church
• Saturday, January 17 at 2:30 a.m. to Sunday, January 18 at 5 p.m.

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that can cause fever, rash, cough, and runny nose. Complications can include pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles.

Pro tip– check your family’s vaccination records. The CDC recommends two doses of the MMR vaccine for children and adults.

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