Three Measles Cases Confirmed in Maryland Amid Growing Health Concern

BALTIMORE, Md. — The Maryland Department of Health confirmed two new cases of measles Thursday, bringing the state’s total to three. The latest cases involve two residents from Prince George's County who recently traveled internationally together.

Officials stated that these new cases are not linked to a prior measles case in Howard County or to outbreaks occurring in Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. Health authorities are currently identifying individuals who may have been exposed to the virus, including notifying passengers from specific flights.

People who visited certain locations at designated times may have been exposed to the virus. These locations include Washington Dulles International Airport (Concourse A) on March 5 from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Terminal Shuttle Bus) on March 14 from noon to 2:30 p.m. Additionally, the Kaiser Permanente Largo Medical Center was noted for exposure on March 5, 13, 15, and 17, along with Passport Toyota in Suitland on March 17 from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Measles symptoms typically manifest 10 to 14 days following exposure, though they can develop as soon as seven days or take as long as 21 days to appear. Early symptoms include fever exceeding 101 degrees Fahrenheit, runny nose, cough, and red, watery eyes. A red rash generally appears on the face within one to four days after the onset of initial symptoms.

Dr. Aaron Milstone, a pediatric infectious diseases specialist at Johns Hopkins Children’s Center, emphasized the importance of vaccination. ‘Measles is highly contagious and can present with a variety of symptoms, including cough, runny nose, and fever. Early symptoms can be misleading, as the rash shows up days later, during which time the person is already contagious,’ Milstone explained.

Health officials classified individuals at high risk of complications from measles as those who are pregnant, infants under one year old, and those who are immunocompromised. The department advises anyone in these groups who may have been exposed to seek immediate consultation with their healthcare provider.

‘Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles,’ Dr. Milstone added. He continued, ‘For children, the MMR vaccine offers robust protection when given in two doses — typically at 12–15 months and again at 4–6 years.’

Additionally, it is vital for individuals who suspect they have measles to call their healthcare provider or local health department before visiting a medical facility to prevent potential further exposure.

Maryland health officials noted that while sporadic cases of measles occur, the recent surge in cases across the country is concerning, with over 320 confirmed cases reported this year in 22 states, particularly in the South and West.

In the past, the U.S. experienced significant measles outbreaks, the last being in 2019. As there are now three confirmed cases in Maryland, health officials urge vigilance, vaccination, and awareness among the community.