The Philadelphia Department of Public Health announced two possible measles exposures that occurred at Philadelphia International Airport over the weekend of Sept. 13‑14. The exposure took place in terminals B and F, as well as connecting areas for terminals C, D and E, between 7:45 p.m. on Sept. 13 and 12:05 a.m. on Sept. 14.
Who was affected?
The infected traveler was moving through the airport but did not leave the facility. Health officials say anyone who was in the affected areas during that time frame may have been exposed.
What should residents do?
Philadelphia health officials are urging anyone who may have been exposed to check their vaccination status. Those who are not fully vaccinated, are unsure of their status, are infants, are pregnant and not immune, or are immunocompromised should contact their doctor promptly.
Health Commissioner Dr. Palak Raval‑Nelson emphasized the importance of vaccination, stating, “Every Philadelphian who is fully vaccinated has little to fear from the situation at the airport. Even more importantly, every one of those people is doing their part to help protect our most vulnerable from measles.”
Vaccination information
The MMR vaccine, given in two doses, provides about 97% lifetime protection against measles, according to health officials. The vaccine is safe and widely available at local clinics and pharmacies.
For those who may have been exposed and are not immune, a preventative antibody product can be administered to reduce the risk of severe disease. The health department is working with the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) to ensure that infants and other high‑risk individuals receive this treatment.
Recent measles activity in Pennsylvania
This is the second reported measles exposure in the Philadelphia area this month. The first case was reported on Sept. 17 at CHOP. In August, Pennsylvania confirmed two measles‑related deaths, the first such fatalities in the state in 35 years. Both individuals were unvaccinated.
Symptoms and next steps
Measles is highly contagious and can be fatal in 1‑3 out of every 1,000 cases. Early symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes, typically appearing seven to 21 days after exposure. A rash usually follows a few days later, beginning on the head and spreading downward.
Anyone who develops symptoms should call ahead before visiting a healthcare facility and inform the provider of the possible measles exposure. Prompt medical attention can help prevent complications such as pneumonia or brain swelling, which occur in a minority of cases.
Public‑health response
The Philadelphia Department of Public Health, in coordination with state health officials and CHOP, is monitoring the situation closely. Officials continue to stress the importance of staying up‑to‑date on vaccinations to protect both individuals and the broader community.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
