Potential Measles Exposure Reported at Philadelphia Locations

The City of Philadelphia has announced two potential measles exposures within a week, with one incident occurring at Philadelphia International Airport. The exposure happened on Sunday, September 13, from 7:45 p.m. to Monday, September 14, at 12:05 a.m. The affected areas include terminals B and F and connecting areas to terminals C, D, and E. According to the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, the person with measles did not leave the airport.

Health officials advise those potentially exposed to confirm their vaccination status and monitor for symptoms. This incident follows another reported exposure at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) on September 17. On September 11, measles exposure was suspected in the following CHOP locations: NICU West, NICU West Family Lounge, Atrium, and Main Cafeteria during specific times.

The health departments of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, and CHOP are coordinating efforts to ensure potentially exposed infants receive a preventative antibody product. They aim to prevent severe disease and further measles spread.

“This week’s exposures highlight the importance of staying current with vaccinations,” stated Health Commissioner Dr. Palak Raval-Nelson. Early symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes, followed by a rash starting at the head.

Fully vaccinated individuals face minimal risk from these exposures while simultaneously protecting those more vulnerable. The health department recommends anyone possibly exposed, particularly those unsure of immunity or vaccination status, infants, pregnant individuals without immunity, or immunocompromised persons, to contact their healthcare provider.

The department suggests immediate treatment for potentially exposed individuals to prevent or mitigate measles. Anyone developing symptoms should inform healthcare facilities before visiting.

Recently, Pennsylvania confirmed two measles-related deaths, the first in 35 years. Data shows the MMR vaccine, given in two doses, offers 97% lifetime protection. Measles is highly contagious and potentially fatal in one to three per 1,000 cases. Long-term complications can include pneumonia and brain swelling, with nearly 20% of patients hospitalized.

Measles spreads via respiratory droplets and can remain infectious in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours. Symptoms begin seven to 21 days post-exposure, starting with fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes, followed by a body-wide rash.

For more information or to contact healthcare providers, Philadelphia residents can refer to local health department resources.