DC health officials have confirmed multiple measles cases and identified at least 12 possible exposure sites across the city, including major public transit routes, a large national rally, a university campus, a hospital emergency department, and Reagan National Airport.
Public health experts warn this could signal a broader risk as DC vaccination rates among kindergartners have slipped to roughly 92–93%—below the 95% threshold needed to prevent outbreaks.
Measles is one of the most contagious viruses known and can linger in indoor air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves, making crowded spaces especially vulnerable.
Faculty experts at the George Washington University are available to offer insight about measles and getting vaccinated. To schedule an interview with an expert, please contact Katelyn Deckelbaum, katelyn [dot] deckelbaum
gwu [dot] edu (katelyn[dot]deckelbaum[at]gwu[dot]edu).
Jose Lucar is an associate professor of infectious diseases at the GW School of Medicine and Health Sciences.
Maria Elena Ruiz is an associate professor of medicine and an infectious disease expert at the GW School of Medicine and Health Sciences.
Elizabeth Choma is a pediatric nurse practitioner and clinical assistant professor at the GW School of Nursing.
Emily Smith, is an associate professor of global health and an expert in infectious diseases and epidemiology, at the GW Milken Institute School of Public Health.
Kelly Gebo is the dean of the GW Milken Institute School of Public Health. An infectious disease physician and epidemiologist, Dr. Gebo’s research has focused on disparities in access to care and outcomes among people affected by HIV, COVID-19, and other infectious diseases.
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