Philadelphia Monitors Possible Measles Exposure at Key Locations
The City of Philadelphia has reported two potential measles exposures within a span of one week, with the latest incident occurring at Philadelphia International Airport. The exposure at the airport involved terminals B and F, as well as the connecting areas to terminals C, D, and E. This took place from 7:45 p.m. on Sunday, September 13, to 12:05 a.m. on Monday, September 14, according to the Philadelphia Department of Public Health.
The measles case involved an individual traveling through Philadelphia, who did not leave the airport premises. Health officials are urging those who may have been exposed to check their vaccination records and remain vigilant for any symptoms.
Earlier exposure was reported at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) on September 11. This occurred at several locations within the hospital, including:
- CHOP NICU West from 9:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.
- CHOP NICU West Family Lounge from 9:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.
- CHOP Atrium from 9:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.
- CHOP Main Cafeteria from 12:05 p.m. to 2:45 p.m.
The Philadelphia Department of Public Health, along with state health officials and CHOP, is coordinating efforts to ensure that potentially exposed infants receive a preventative antibody treatment to mitigate the risk or severity of the disease. Measures are also being implemented to curb further spread of measles.
Health Commissioner Dr. Palak Raval-Nelson emphasized the importance of being up-to-date with vaccinations as measles outbreaks continue in Pennsylvania and other regions. Initial symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes, followed by a rash that starts on the head and progresses downward.
Dr. Raval-Nelson reassured that fully vaccinated individuals have minimal risk from exposure at CHOP and the airport, and highlighted their role in protecting vulnerable populations from measles.
The health department advises anyone exposed and unsure of their vaccination status or those who are pregnant, immunocompromised, or infants to contact their healthcare provider.
Some individuals may qualify for post-exposure treatments that can prevent or lessen the severity of measles. Those who exhibit symptoms should notify their healthcare provider in advance before seeking medical assistance.
Recently, Pennsylvania confirmed two measles-related deaths in August, marking the first fatalities linked to measles in the state in 35 years. Officials strongly recommend vaccination for children, as the MMR vaccine provides 97% lifelong protection when delivered in two doses.
Measles remains a highly contagious virus with data indicating one to three fatalities per 1,000 cases. Long-term health complications like pneumonia and brain inflammation can occur. Up to 20% of affected individuals require hospitalization. Symptoms often begin seven to 21 days post-exposure.
The virus spreads through respiratory droplets from an infected person when they breathe, cough, or sneeze, and can remain active in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours.