Health officials investigate confirmed measles case at Virginia airport

February 7, 2026 - 21:02

Virginia health authorities have launched a public health investigation following a confirmed case of measles in an individual who traveled through two major Virginia airports. The person was at Washington Dulles International Airport on January 3 and at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on January 4.

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can linger in a room for up to two hours after an infected person has left. Officials are working to identify and directly notify individuals who may have been in close contact with the traveler during specific time windows at the airports.

Symptoms of measles typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure and include a high fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes, and a distinctive red rash that usually begins on the face and spreads downward. The disease can lead to serious complications, especially in young children and infants.

Health officials are urging anyone who was at these locations during the specified times to review their vaccination status and monitor for symptoms. Individuals who develop symptoms should contact their healthcare provider by phone before visiting a medical facility to prevent potential spread. Vaccination with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly effective in preventing the disease.