Health Officials Investigate Confirmed Measles Case at Virginia Airport

Potential exposure sites identified at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and on the Washington Area Metro

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

The Virginia Department of Health has reported a confirmed case of measles involving a resident from another state who traveled through the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on January 26. Health officials are investigating the case and have identified potential exposure sites at the airport and on the Washington Area Metro system.

Why it matters

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that can lead to serious complications, especially in young children. This case highlights the importance of vaccination and the need for prompt public health response to contain the spread of measles and protect vulnerable populations.

The details

The Virginia Department of Health was notified of the confirmed measles case on January 26. The infected individual traveled through Terminal 2 of the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport between 12:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. on that day. The person also took the Yellow Line train from the airport station, transferring at the Gallery Place - Chinatown station to the Red Line train heading towards the Glenmont station between 8:30 p.m. and 11:30 p.m.

  • The confirmed measles case was reported on January 26, 2026.
  • The potential exposure sites were identified at the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and on the Washington Area Metro system on January 26, 2026 between the specified time frames.

The players

Virginia Department of Health

The state health department responsible for investigating the confirmed measles case and identifying potential exposure sites.

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport

The airport where the infected individual traveled through and potentially exposed others to the measles virus.

Washington Area Metro

The public transportation system where the infected individual traveled and potentially exposed others to the measles virus.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Virginia Department of Health is urging anyone who may have been exposed to the measles virus at the identified locations and times to monitor for symptoms and contact their healthcare provider if they develop any measles-related symptoms.

The takeaway

This measles case serves as a reminder of the importance of vaccination, especially for those who may be traveling or using public transportation. Health officials are working to contain the spread of the virus and protect the community.