The Philadelphia Department of Public Health issued a notice on Monday urging travelers who were in Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) between 7:25 p.m. on September 13 and 12:05 a.m. on September 14 to check their vaccination records for measles. The exposure is unrelated to a recent measles case at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, but officials say the two incidents underscore the importance of staying current on immunizations.
Where and When the Exposure Occurred
According to the health department, the individual with measles traveled through PHL but did not leave the airport. The exposure is believed to have taken place in terminals B and F, as well as the connecting corridors used for terminals C, D, and E. The timing of the potential exposure spans roughly five hours, from the evening of September 13 into the early morning of September 14.
What Travelers Should Do
Health officials are asking anyone who was in the affected areas during that window to confirm they have received the measles‑mumps‑rubella (MMR) vaccine. Those who are unsure of their vaccination status should contact their primary care provider or local health clinic. If a person develops fever, cough, runny nose, red watery eyes, or a rash, they should call ahead before visiting a healthcare facility and inform the provider of the possible measles exposure.
Official Statement
“This week’s measles exposures are a reminder of how important it is for all of us to be up to date on our vaccinations,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Palak Raval‑Nelson. “Every Philadelphian who is fully vaccinated has little to fear from the situation at CHOP and the airport. Even more importantly, every one of those people is doing their part to help protect our most vulnerable from measles. With outbreaks continuing in Pennsylvania and other places, this is even more important. I encourage everyone to visit phila.gov/measles to learn more about measles, the MMR vaccine, and what they can do to keep themselves, their families, and their community safe.”
Understanding Measles
Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. People who are not protected can contract the virus up to two hours after an infected individual has left the same room or airspace. Early symptoms include fever, runny nose, cough, and red, watery eyes, followed by a characteristic rash. In some cases, measles can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death.
Why Vaccination Matters
The MMR vaccine is safe, effective, and has been the cornerstone of measles control in the United States for decades. Communities with high vaccination rates create herd immunity, which protects those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons. Health officials stress that maintaining strong vaccination coverage is essential to preventing further spread, especially as measles cases have risen in several states this year.
How to Get Vaccinated
Residents can receive the MMR vaccine at their family doctor’s office, local health department clinics, pharmacies, and many schools. The vaccine is typically administered in two doses, the first at 12‑15 months of age and the second at 4‑6 years, though adults who lack documentation of prior vaccination should receive at least one dose.
Next Steps for the Community
The health department will continue monitoring the situation and will issue further updates if additional exposures are identified. In the meantime, officials ask the public to remain vigilant, practice good hygiene, and ensure that children and adults are fully vaccinated against measles.
Original reporting: Allentown News – 6abc Philadelphia — read the source article.
