The Philadelphia health department is alerting the public about two recent cases of potential measles exposure, with the latest incident occurring at Philadelphia International Airport. The exposure took place in terminals B and F, as well as in connecting areas to terminals C, D, and E, overnight from September 13 to September 14.
Officials reported that the individual carrying the measles virus was traveling through the airport but did not exit the premises. People who may have been exposed are urged to check their vaccination status and monitor for any signs of the illness.
This marks the second reported exposure in Philadelphia, following an earlier case on September 11 at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). During that incident, the potential exposures occurred in various locations within the hospital, including its neonatology unit and family lounge.
Health authorities in Pennsylvania and Philadelphia, along with CHOP, are working to ensure that infants and others who may have been exposed receive preventative treatment to mitigate potential health issues from the virus, as well as take necessary measures to contain the spread.
Dr. Palak Raval-Nelson, the health commissioner, emphasized the importance of being current on vaccinations, stating that everyone up to date with their measles vaccinations is at minimal risk from the recent exposures.
For individuals who suspect they have been exposed and do not have immunity, or who are pregnant or have other health concerns, it is recommended that they contact their healthcare provider. Some treatments may still be available after exposure to prevent or lessen the severity of measles.
In August, Pennsylvania tragically reported two measles-related deaths, highlighting the seriousness of the virus. Measles is highly contagious and can lead to severe complications, including hospitalization for about 20% of infected individuals.
People can contract measles from an infected person’s respiratory droplets when they cough or sneeze. The virus can remain infectious in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours. Symptoms typically surface anywhere from seven to 21 days after exposure, starting with fever, cough, and runny nose, followed by a rash.
To protect against measles, health experts strongly recommend vaccination, which significantly strengthens the immune response and provides long-lasting protection.
