The city of Philadelphia has reported two potential exposures to measles within just a week, with the latest incident occurring at Philadelphia International Airport.
This particular exposure was noted in terminals B and F and in the connecting areas of terminals C, D, and E. It took place on Sunday, September 13, from 7:45 p.m. to 12:05 a.m. the following day, according to the Philadelphia Department of Public Health.
The person infected with measles was merely passing through the airport and did not leave the premises. Health officials have urged anyone who might have been exposed to verify their vaccination status and to be alert for any symptoms.
This marks the second reported measles exposure in the Philadelphia area, following an earlier case on September 11 at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
The exposure at CHOP involved the following locations on that day:
- CHOP NICU West: 9:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.
- CHOP NICU West Family Lounge: 9:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.
- CHOP Atrium: 9:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.
- CHOP Main Cafeteria: 12:05 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.
Health departments from both Pennsylvania and Philadelphia, as well as CHOP, are reportedly coordinating efforts to provide preventive treatments for infants who may have been exposed, aiming to reduce the severity of the disease and curb any further spread of measles.
In a recent statement, Health Commissioner Dr. Palak Raval-Nelson emphasized the importance of staying current with vaccinations. She noted that for those who are fully vaccinated, the risk from exposures is minimal, which is especially crucial given ongoing outbreaks in Pennsylvania and beyond.
The health department has advised anyone exposed who is uncertain about their immunity, including infants, pregnant individuals without immunity, or those with compromised immune systems, to reach out to their healthcare provider. Some may still be eligible for treatment that could prevent or lessen the severity of the illness after exposure.
In August, Pennsylvania had reported two deaths related to measles, marking the first fatalities linked to the virus in the state in over three decades.
The Pennsylvania Department of Health confirmed that the individuals involved from Lancaster County were unvaccinated.
The MMR vaccine, when given in two doses, is said to provide about 97% protection against measles, reinforcing the recommendation for vaccination.
Measles is known for being highly contagious, potentially leading to serious health issues like pneumonia and encephalitis, with a hospitalization rate of nearly 20% among those infected.
Experts warn that the virus can linger in the air and on surfaces for a couple of hours, making it vital for anyone who suspects they may have been exposed to contact a healthcare provider promptly.
Initial symptoms of measles may appear within seven to 21 days post-exposure and usually include fever, cough, runny nose, and red watery eyes, followed by a rash that spreads from the head down.
