Adult with measles possibly exposed others in Fairfax County

Health officials in Virginia investigating confirmed case, urge potential exposures to report

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

Health officials in Virginia are investigating a confirmed case of measles in a Northern Virginia resident who recently traveled internationally. This case, coupled with seven others reported in the state this year, raises concerns about potential community spread, particularly for those unvaccinated or too young to receive the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Several locations in Lorton, Fairfax County have been identified where individuals may have been exposed to the virus.

Why it matters

Measles is a highly contagious airborne disease, and this case highlights the ongoing need for vaccination and vigilance against preventable diseases, especially as cases rise nationally. Those most at risk include unvaccinated individuals, young children, and those with compromised immune systems.

The details

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has identified several locations in Lorton, Fairfax County where individuals may have been exposed to the virus, including a grocery store, urgent care clinic, and emergency room. Individuals who were at these locations during the specified times are urged to report their potential exposure to VDH.

  • On February 11, 2026, between 3:30 p.m. and 5:45 p.m., potential exposure at Giant Food (8941 Ox Road).
  • On February 13, 2026, between 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., potential exposure at Inova-GoHealth Urgent Care – Lorton Marketplace (9427 Lorton Market St.).
  • On February 14, 2026, between 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., potential exposure at Inova HealthPlex Lorton Emergency Room (9321 Sanger St.).

The players

Virginia Department of Health (VDH)

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

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What’s next

Individuals who believe they may have been exposed are urged to contact their healthcare provider or request records through the VDH Record Request Portal, as post-exposure treatment may be available within a specific timeframe.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing need for vaccination and vigilance against preventable diseases like measles, as cases rise nationally. Those most at risk include unvaccinated individuals, young children, and those with compromised immune systems.