International Traveler in Montgomery County Diagnosed with Measles

Maryland and Montgomery County health officials this week reported a confirmed case of measles in a resident who recently traveled internationally.

Individuals who were present at the following locations during the specified hours may have been exposed:

Early symptoms of measles include a fever above 101 degrees Fahrenheit, runny nose, cough, and red, watery eyes. A red rash usually appears on the face and spreads to the body one to four days after these initial symptoms.

Individuals are typically immune to measles if they have received two measles vaccine shots, previously contracted measles, have laboratory evidence of immunity or infection, or were born in the United States before 1957. Pregnant women, infants under one year old, and those with compromised immunity are at higher risk of complications from measles. Those in these groups who might have been exposed and are not immune should seek guidance by contacting their healthcare provider or Montgomery County Health and Human Services’ Disease Control Office at (240) 777-1755.

People who were present at the mentioned locations during the potential exposure times, especially those who are unvaccinated or not immune to measles, should monitor themselves for symptoms for 21 days post-exposure. If symptoms develop, they should refrain from public activities, contact their healthcare provider, and inform the office before arriving to prevent potential spread to others.

Measles is a contagious viral infection preventable by vaccination, easily transmitted to the unvaccinated through respiratory secretions. Recent years have seen a global increase in measles cases and importation to the U.S. Maryland recorded one case in 2023 and five in 2019.

Measles symptoms usually manifest 10-14 days after exposure but can appear as early as seven days or up to 21 days after. An infected individual is contagious from four days before the rash onset to four days after it appears.

Photo: © Dr_Microbe – stock.adobe.com

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