Virginia health officials are confirming the state’s second measles case of 2026, involving a preschool-aged child in Northern Virginia who recently traveled internationally, according to the Virginia Department of Health (VDH).
Due to privacy protections, no additional details about the child have been released. State and local health officials are now working to identify anyone who may have been exposed during the child’s time in Virginia and nearby states.
Potential Exposure Locations Identified
VDH has released the following dates, times, and locations where exposure may have occurred in Virginia:
- Alexander T. Augusta Military Medical Center
Emergency Department and Executive Medicine Suite
9300 DeWitt Loop, Fort Belvoir
Friday, January 9
• 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
• 10:00 p.m. to midnight
In addition to the Virginia location, officials say there was a potential exposure on an Amtrak train traveling through several states:
- Amtrak Northeast Regional Train 175
From William H. Gray III 30th Street Station in Philadelphia
To Washington Union Station
Wednesday, January 7
• 9:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
Health officials have also identified additional exposure sites connected to this case in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Washington, D.C.
Measles Cases in Virginia So Far This Year
With this latest report, Virginia has now recorded two measles cases in 2026. VDH says any new exposure locations identified within the state will be added to its official measles information page as they become available.
What You Should Know If You Were Exposed
Health officials stress that most Virginians are protected from measles through routine childhood vaccinations, and the overall risk to the general public remains low.
However, anyone who was present at the listed locations during the specified times is encouraged to:
- Monitor for symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, or rash
- Contact a healthcare provider before visiting a medical facility if symptoms develop
- Avoid public places and gatherings if illness occurs
VDH continues to coordinate with health departments in surrounding states as part of the ongoing response.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official health updates and to ensure vaccinations are up to date, especially for young children and those planning international travel.