(Source-The-Philadelphia-Inquirer)
On Friday, travelers passing through Philadelphia International Airport may have been exposed to measles Incident, a highly contagious virus. The city’s health department issued a warning on Monday, informing the public of the potential exposure which occurred in the federal inspection area of Terminal A West between 2:50 p.m. and 6 p.m. The individual carrying the virus was traveling out of Philadelphia, and this case is unrelated to another recent measles incident in Northeast Philadelphia and Montgomery County.
Landrus Burress, director of the health department’s division of disease control, emphasized that there is no significant threat to the general public from this specific case. However, Burress advised individuals who were in the area during the specified time to take necessary precautions if they are not vaccinated against measles.
Precautionary Measures and Immunization Guidelines
Health officials recommend that people who have received two doses of the measles incident vaccine, typically given as the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, or those who have previously had measles, do not need to take any further action. Additionally, individuals born before 1957 are generally considered immune to the virus.
For those who are not vaccinated against measles, it is crucial to get immunized immediately. This is especially important for children too young to receive the vaccine, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems. These groups are advised to consult their healthcare providers as soon as possible if they were potentially exposed.
Measles manifests as a rash and is infectious from four days before the appearance of red spots to four days after. Other symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and red, puffy eyes. Unvaccinated individuals who may have been exposed at the airport should wear masks in public spaces and around others who are unvaccinated for three weeks following the exposure to prevent further spread of the virus.
Recent Measles Incident Outbreak and Public Health Response
The warning about the possible exposure at the airport comes on the heels of a recent measles incident outbreak that began at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia late last year. This outbreak extended from December into early January and resulted in nine cases, primarily affecting unvaccinated individuals. Seven of those infected required hospitalization.
The health department’s alert underscores the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of measles. The MMR vaccine has been highly effective in controlling measles and incident outbreaks, yet incidents like the one at Philadelphia International Airport highlight the ongoing risk posed by unvaccinated individuals.
Public health officials continue to monitor the situation closely and are prepared to take additional measures if necessary to prevent further transmission of the virus. The health department urges everyone to ensure their vaccinations are up to date to protect themselves and their communities from measles and other preventable diseases.
