The City of Philadelphia has reported two possible measles exposures within a week. The latest exposure occurred at the Philadelphia International Airport. The incident took place between terminals B and F, along with connecting areas to terminals C, D, and E. This happened from 7:45 p.m. on Sunday, September 13, to 12:05 a.m. on Monday, September 14.
The Philadelphia Department of Public Health stated the individual with measles was traveling through the city without leaving the airport. Health officials advised people who were potentially exposed to review their vaccination status and monitor for symptoms.
“MEASLES-INFECTED TRAVELER MAY HAVE EXPOSED PASSENGERS AT LAX AND NEARBY HOTEL, HEALTH OFFICIALS WARN”
This was the second reported exposure in Philadelphia. Previously, an incident was reported on September 11 at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) involving several locations.
- 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.
The Pennsylvania and Philadelphia health departments, along with CHOP, are working together to ensure exposed infants receive a preventative antibody treatment. Measures are being taken to halt the further spread of measles.
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Health Commissioner Dr. Palak Raval-Nelson emphasized the importance of vaccinations, stating initial measles symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes, with a rash appearing afterward.
“Every Philadelphian who is fully vaccinated has little to fear from the situation at CHOP and the airport,” Dr. Raval-Nelson noted. “These vaccinations are crucial in protecting vulnerable individuals from measles.”
The health department advised those exposed and unsure of immunity, as well as infants, pregnant individuals, and the immunocompromised, to contact their doctor.
“Some people may still be eligible for treatment after exposure that can prevent measles or reduce the severity of illness.”
In August, Pennsylvania confirmed two measles-related deaths, marking the first in 35 years. Officials urge vaccination for all children. The MMR vaccine provides 97% lifetime protection with two doses.
Measles is highly contagious and potentially fatal, affecting one to three patients per 1,000 cases, with possible severe outcomes like pneumonia or brain swelling. Twenty percent of measles cases result in hospitalization. Symptoms may appear seven to 21 days post-exposure. If you suspect exposure, contact a healthcare provider immediately.
The virus spreads via respiratory droplets when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. It remains infective in the air or on surfaces for two hours after the infected person’s departure.
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