Maryland has reported multiple measles cases being tracked in Prince George’s County following international travel. This case is not tied to a recent case in Howard County.
The following times have been listed as potential times for contact with measles by the Maryland Department of Health.
- March 5: Dulles International Airport
- March 5, 13, 15 and 17: Kaiser Permanente Largo Medical Center
- March 14: Reagan National Airport and on a Metro Yellow Line train
- March 17: Passport Toyota in Suitland
“Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) is working closely with the Prince George’s County Health Department following a confirmed case of measles at John Hanson Montessori in Oxon Hill,” read a statement from PGCPS. “The last known exposure on campus occurred on March 12, 2025. In accordance with privacy laws, we cannot provide additional details about the individual who tested positive.”
Measles is highly contagious. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention cites that nine out of 10 people in proximity to an infected person will become infected if they are not vaccinated. The symptoms, which show up one to two weeks after contracting measles, include coughing, runny nose, watery eyes, rash, and a high fever that may spike to more than 104° F.
The Maryland Department of Health also cites ongoing measles outbreaks in New Mexico, Texas, and Oklahoma.
“Be Wise Immunize! Did you know #measles is one of the most contagious diseases, but entirely preventable with the MMR vaccine,” Prince George’s Health wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. “Schedule an appointment with your doctor to #StayProtected.”
Flu Season Still Rampant, 2 Local Youth Tragically Die
Two elementary school students, one at Chesapeake Math and IT(CMIT) Academy North Elementary School in Laurel, Maryland and one at John Bayne Elementary School, tragically died from the flu in early March.
“It’s deceiving sometimes to see the sun out and shining and think that maybe we have moved past the ugly head of flu season, but that’s not the case. So, it’s important for us to pay attention,” said PGCPS Superintendent Millard House II.
House sent a letter to parents about measures to prevent illness, and advised that parents don’t send sick children to school.
A mask mandate is being considered, particularly for schools with more than 10% of the student population experiencing illness.
In addition, Prince George’s County State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy released a statement on X, sending condolences to the students’ families and encouraging Prince Georgians to use local resources to protect themselves from the flu.
“I am deeply saddened to learn about the tragic loss of two students in our community due to the recent rise in flu cases,” said Braveboy, who won the Democratic primary for the next Prince George’s county executive earlier this month. “My heartfelt condolences go out to their families, friends, and all those impacted by this heartbreaking news.”
Flu shots are provided at the Prince George’s County Health Department’s Cheverly location from Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and PGCPS will be providing in-school flu shot clinics for students, staff, and families, free of charge, for this flu season.
“We want our children and our schools to be safe,” Braveboy wrote in her statement posted to X, formerly known as Twitter. “Please take a moment to review health and safety measures with your family.”
For more information on measles, go here. For more information on the flu, go here.