Measles Outbreak Hits DC Metro Area

Measles Cases Confirmed in DC Area, Public Exposure Warnings Issued Health officials in Washington D.C. and Virginia confirmed two new measles cases on May 2, 2026, prompting warnings of potential public exposure at Dulles International Airport and multiple Metrorail lines between April 23 and April 27. The District's Department of Health announced a confirmed case within the city, while the Virginia Department of Health reported a case involving an international traveler who passed through Dulles Airport.

The confirmed cases contribute to a significant national resurgence of measles, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting over 1,814 confirmed cases nationwide through April of the current year. This figure follows approximately 2,300 cases reported in 2025. The highly contagious nature of measles means that approximately 9 out of 10 unvaccinated individuals exposed to the virus will become infected.

Authorities have identified specific locations and times of potential exposure, including Concourse B, the Aerotrain, and the Baggage Claim Area of Dulles International Airport on April 23 and 24. Additionally, various M60 Metrobus routes and Metrorail Green, Blue, Orange, and Red Lines were listed for potential exposure between April 24 and April 27.

Individuals present at these locations during the specified times are advised to monitor for symptoms for 21 days and verify their vaccination status. Vaccination remains a critical measure in controlling the spread of the disease, with two doses recommended for children aged 12 months to 4 years.