Health officials in Washington D.C. are alerting residents about a potential measles exposure after a person with a "confirmed case" traveled through two major airports in the area. The individual, who recently returned from an international trip, passed through the international arrivals area of Dulles International Airport on January 3 between 4 and 8 p.m. The next day, they were at terminal A of Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m.

DC Health, the local health agency, released a statement stating that they had been notified of the confirmed measles case. While the risk of transmission is deemed low, they are taking precautionary measures and notifying individuals who were present at the mentioned locations about their potential exposure.

The Virginia Department of Health issued a similar warning a few days earlier, stressing that measles is a highly contagious illness that can spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or breathes. Symptoms of measles typically manifest in two stages, with the first stage including a fever of over 101 degrees, a runny nose, watery red eyes, and a cough. These symptoms generally develop 7 to 14 days after exposure. The second stage begins 3 to 5 days after symptoms start, when a rash appears on the face and spreads throughout the body.

Both health agencies emphasized that individuals who may have been exposed to measles should be vigilant for symptoms until January 25. If any symptoms are noticed, it is advised to isolate oneself at home and contact a healthcare provider immediately. Individuals are also urged to call ahead before visiting a healthcare provider or an emergency room, informing them of the potential exposure to measles and requesting that the health department be contacted to ensure proper precautions are taken for the protection of others.

The identity of the airline on which the person with measles traveled remains unknown. However, due to the high volume of flights and travelers passing through Dulles International Airport and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport daily, health officials are urging individuals who may have been in the mentioned areas to remain vigilant for any signs of measles and seek prompt medical attention if symptoms arise.