Measles Spread to the DMV

Anna Hsia

On Feb. 25 2025, Texas reported the first measles death of a school-aged child in the United States since 2015.  

On March 9, 2025 another case of measles was found in a Howard County, Md resident who had traveled through Dulles International Airport.  

Measles is a highly contagious disease that can cause high fever, runny nose, cough and red watery eyes.  Soon after these symptoms one can then experience a red rash that will appear everywhere on the body. Measles can travel through airborne particles or direct contact with infectious droplets.   

Thanks to vaccines, this disease has been mostly eliminated however outbreaks still happen, especially when vaccinations rates drop. To prevent being infected, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends getting vaccinated.   

In the US, all states require students to have certain vaccines before they attend school. However, parents can ask for an exemption which is usually used for medical, religious or personal reasons.  

According to the CDC more and more non-medical exemptions are being approved as parents choose not to vaccinate their children. This will lead to an increase in the risk of preventable outbreaks.   

Choosing not to vaccinate are putting their children and others at risk. If one chooses not to become vaccinated because of personal beliefs they are jeopardizing their own health but also the health of others around them especially with those who have a weakened immune system.  

Personal beliefs should never take priority over public health and safety.  Vaccines have also been proven to prevent diseases that have not gone away. Even though the cases of measles have gone down significantly the virus still exists as shown by the recent cases.  

It can be hard to fathom the intensity of these diseases when their horrible effects are not being seen every day. Thus, it is critical that we do our part to prevent the spread of these horrific viruses. Getting vaccinated is one of the most effective ways to keep these diseases on the low and prevent them from resurfacing again.  

Furthermore, I think it is irresponsible for parents to make decisions for their children without considering their potential wishes or understanding of the situation. Even though children are not legal to make their own decisions, they should have the right to be informed and even express their thoughts and opinions on their own health.  

If given the chance to opt in or out of vaccinations, I think children would understand the significance of protecting themselves and others from preventable diseases.   

Regardless of what you choose vaccination is more than a personal decision it is about protecting public health to guarantee a heathier future for everyone.