Confirmed Measles Case in Washington, D.C.

Recent news from DC Health has confirmed a case of measles in a person who visited Washington, D.C. while being contagious. This is a significant public health concern, particularly given the highly infectious nature of the measles virus. The infected individual was present at a Five Guys restaurant located at 1400 I Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20002, on April 5th, from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

What is Measles?

Measles is a viral infection that begins with symptoms like high fever, cough, runny nose, and inflamed eyes, followed by a characteristic red, blotchy skin rash. The virus is highly contagious and can be transmitted through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Measles can remain airborne and infectious in the environment for up to two hours after an infected person has left the area.

Importance of Vaccination

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles. The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended for children, with the first dose typically given between 12-15 months of age and a second dose between 4-6 years. Adults who have not been vaccinated or have no history of measles should consult healthcare providers about getting vaccinated, especially if they plan to travel or be in crowded places.

Public Health Advisory

DC Health is taking proactive measures to notify individuals who were present at the Five Guys restaurant during the specified time frame. Those who visited the restaurant during these hours are advised to monitor for symptoms of measles and to consult a healthcare provider if they develop any signs of illness.

It is crucial for the community to be aware of the symptoms and to take necessary precautions, especially since measles can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death in some cases.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Symptoms of measles typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure to the virus. Initial symptoms may include:

• High Fever: Often the first symptom to appear.
• Cough: A dry cough is common.
• Runny Nose: Nasal congestion may occur.
• Red Eyes: Conjunctivitis (inflammation of the eyes).
• Rash: A red, blotchy rash usually appears 3 to 5 days after initial symptoms, often starting at the hairline and spreading downward.

  If you suspect you have been exposed to measles, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider immediately. Diagnosis is typically confirmed through a blood test or by identifying the characteristic rash.

  Community Response and Safety Measures
  

  In light of this measles case, community members are urged to review their vaccination status and ensure they are up to date. Public places like restaurants, schools, and other gathering spots require heightened awareness, especially during outbreaks.

  It’s also essential for parents to keep their children’s vaccinations current. The CDC recommends that all children receive two doses of the MMR vaccine to provide effective immunity against measles.

  Conclusion
  

  The confirmed measles case in Washington, D.C. serves as a reminder of the importance of vaccination and public health awareness. With measles being highly contagious, it is essential for individuals to be informed and vigilant. If you or someone you know has been in the vicinity of the Five Guys restaurant during the specified hours, please monitor for symptoms and seek medical advice if necessary.

  Staying informed about health advisories and ensuring that vaccinations are up to date can help prevent the spread of measles and protect the community. For more information on measles, vaccination schedules, and public health resources, individuals can visit the DC Health website or consult with local healthcare providers.

Breaking: DC Health was notified of a confirmed case of measles in a person who visited the District while contagious.
● Five Guys Restaurant- 1400 I Street NW Washington, DC 20002
○ April 5th, 3:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

DC Health is notifying individuals who were at this location…

— Spencer Allan Brooks (@SpencerSays) April 14, 2025

Breaking: DC Health was notified of a confirmed case of measles in a person who visited the District while contagious.

If you’ve been following health news lately, you might have come across a concerning update regarding a measles case in Washington, D.C. The DC Health department has reported a confirmed case of measles in a person who was in the area while contagious. This news raises some serious questions about public health and safety, especially in popular locations like restaurants.

The specific location linked to this measles case is the Five Guys Restaurant located at 1400 I Street NW, Washington, DC 20002. This incident occurred on April 5th, from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. If you were at this restaurant during that time, you may want to pay attention to the details surrounding this situation.

DC Health is notifying individuals who were at this location

First off, let’s talk about what measles is and why it’s a big deal. Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that can spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can remain active on surfaces for several hours. This means if you were at Five Guys during that time, there’s a chance you could have been exposed to the virus.

DC Health is taking this matter seriously. They are actively notifying individuals who were at the Five Guys location during the specified time frame. If you happen to be one of those individuals, don’t panic. The health department will provide guidance on what steps you should take next.

What should you do if you were at Five Guys?

If you were at Five Guys Restaurant between 3:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. on April 5th, the first thing you should do is check your vaccination status. Measles vaccinations are part of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine. If you are vaccinated, your risk of contracting the virus is significantly lower.

If you are unvaccinated or unsure about your vaccination status, it’s advisable to contact your healthcare provider. They can offer specific advice and may suggest monitoring for symptoms of measles, which include high fever, cough, runny nose, and a characteristic rash that usually appears a few days later.

Understanding the implications of a measles outbreak

The reality is that measles is not just a childhood illness. While many may think of it as a disease that’s only a concern for kids, measles can affect anyone, regardless of age. It is especially dangerous for infants, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems.

According to the CDC, measles can lead to serious complications, such as pneumonia, encephalitis (swelling of the brain), and even death. With its high contagion rate, if one person has measles, it can spread rapidly in community settings, especially in crowded places like restaurants.

The importance of vaccinations

One of the most effective ways to prevent measles outbreaks is through vaccination. In fact, the CDC recommends that children receive their first dose of the MMR vaccine at 12-15 months, followed by a second dose at 4-6 years. Adults who are unsure about their vaccination status should consider consulting their healthcare provider to discuss the benefits of vaccination.

In recent years, there has been an increase in vaccine hesitancy, which can lead to outbreaks like the one currently being reported. Public health officials emphasize the importance of vaccinations to maintain herd immunity and protect vulnerable populations.

How to stay informed during a health alert

In situations like these, staying informed is crucial. Following local health department updates is a great way to ensure you have the latest information. For more details on the measles case in D.C., you can refer to the DC Health website. They will provide updates on the situation, including any additional health advisories.

Additionally, consider following trusted news sources and health organizations on social media for real-time updates. Platforms like Twitter can be useful for getting quick updates, but always verify information from official sources.

Community response and awareness

Community awareness is key to managing public health concerns. If you know someone who frequents the Five Guys Restaurant at 1400 I Street NW, it’s essential to share this information with them. Encouraging open discussions about vaccination and health practices can help reduce fears and misinformation surrounding measles.

Furthermore, if you were at the Five Guys location during the reported time and develop symptoms, be sure to isolate yourself and seek medical advice promptly. This helps prevent further transmission of the virus.

Conclusion: Staying vigilant

In light of this confirmed measles case in D.C., it’s important to stay vigilant and proactive. Whether you’re a frequent diner at Five Guys or simply someone living in the area, being informed about potential health risks is crucial.

Measles is a serious disease that can lead to severe health complications, but by staying educated and ensuring vaccinations are up-to-date, we can help protect ourselves and our communities from outbreaks.

For more information on measles, vaccination recommendations, and public health updates, visit the CDC Measles page or your local health department’s website. Remember, knowledge is power, and being informed can make all the difference in keeping our communities healthy.