Empire State Review Team 
Measles Exposure Alert on Amtrak Train Through NYC
Location: NEW YORK
Health authorities have issued a warning regarding potential measles exposure for passengers aboard Amtrak’s Northeast Regional Train 175. An individual infected with the measles virus traveled on the train, raising concerns for public health as the train journey included key urban centers, notably New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C.
Details of the Exposure
According to health officials, the person was on board the train from 7:30 PM to 1:30 AM on March 19 while experiencing symptoms of the virus. The train started from Boston, stopping at major urban locations before reaching Washington, D.C., where the infected individual later sought medical attention at an urgent care facility on March 23.
Current Measles Statistics
This year, nearly 400 cases of measles have been documented across 18 states, indicating a rising trend in this highly contagious viral infection. Notably, areas within Washington, D.C., have been marked as exposure sites, including the Amtrak Concourse at Union Station and a MedStar Urgent Care clinic in Adams Morgan.
Identified Exposure Locations
Individuals who may have been present at the following locations and times are advised to be vigilant for symptoms:
- Amtrak Northeast Regional 175 Train (Southbound):
March 19th, 7:30 PM – 1:30 AM - Amtrak Concourse, Union Station:
50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002
March 19th, 11:00 PM – 1:30 AM - MedStar Urgent Care Adams Morgan:
1805 Columbia Rd NW, Washington, DC 20009
March 22nd, 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Anyone who frequented these sites during the specified times and has not been vaccinated against measles should consult a healthcare provider.
Public Health Recommendations
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that measles is typically brought into the United States by individuals who contracted the illness overseas. Subsequent transmission often occurs within communities with low vaccination rates. Vaccination remains the most effective preventive measure against the disease.
Recognizing Symptoms of Measles
Symptoms typically manifest following an incubation period of about one to three weeks. Early signs may include:
- High fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- Rash, which usually appears 3 to 5 days after initial symptoms
The rash generally commences as flat red spots, beginning on the face and gradually descending to other areas of the body. A fever exceeding 104°F may coincide with the development of the rash.
Treatment and Prevention
Unfortunately, there is no specific antiviral treatment for measles; hence, care is primarily supportive, aimed at alleviating symptoms and avoiding complications. To prevent outbreaks, maintaining vaccination coverage of over 95% within communities to achieve herd immunity is crucial.
For additional information on measles vaccination, visit the CDC’s MMR Vaccination page.
Conclusion
As it stands, health officials continue to monitor the situation closely. It is imperative that anyone who may have been in proximity to the affected individual take the necessary precautions and seek medical consultation if symptoms arise.
