BETHESDA-CHEVY CHASE, MD — Health officials in Montgomery County are alerting the public about a potential measles exposure linked to a Virginia resident who visited a building in downtown Bethesda.
According to an official statement, the individual from Virginia has been diagnosed with measles and was present at 7200 Wisconsin Ave. in Bethesda on February 10, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The health advisory warns, “Anyone who was in the building during this time, particularly those who are unvaccinated against measles, should keep an eye out for early symptoms, such as fever.” It further advises that anyone experiencing fever or other symptoms should reach out to their healthcare provider.
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that can be prevented through vaccination and is primarily spread via coughing and sneezing.
If you suspect you have contracted measles or have been diagnosed, it is crucial to avoid public spaces and consult your doctor immediately.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights that initial symptoms may include a high fever, potentially exceeding 104 degrees Fahrenheit, along with a cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes.
As the illness progresses, symptoms may intensify, leading to the appearance of small white spots inside the mouth and raised bumps on the skin.
As of Friday, Sean O’Donnell, the deputy chief director of public health services in the county, informed Bethesda Today that no cases of exposure had been reported to the department.
A detailed list of locations visited by the Virginia resident is available online via the Virginia Department of Health. The department indicated that the individual traveled with another adult who also has a confirmed measles case.
This incident marks the 10th reported measles case in Virginia.
If you think you may have been exposed, please contact the Montgomery County Health and Human Services’ Disease Control Office at (240) 777-1755.
