A recent case of measles has raised concern in the Philadelphia area after a child traveled from John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City to Philadelphia. Health officials confirmed that the child visited various locations in the city, potentially exposing numerous individuals to this highly contagious virus.
According to the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services Office of Public Health, the child was present in Philadelphia from 9:30 p.m. on Tuesday to 3:15 a.m. on Wednesday. The child arrived at Pho Ha Saigon restaurant, located at 757 Adams Ave., via a shuttle bus from Terminal 4 at JFK Airport. Following this, the child visited True North Pediatrics Associates in Plymouth Meeting, and later attended the CHOP King of Prussia Campus Emergency Department on Wednesday.
Officials are actively investigating the measles case and have begun contact tracing in collaboration with local healthcare systems. Individuals who were present at any of the aforementioned locations during the specified timeframes may have been exposed to the virus. It’s important to note that the measles virus can linger in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected person leaves the area, posing a risk of infection.
Individuals who believe they may have been exposed to measles should take immediate action. They are advised to:
Review immunization records to check for protection against measles.Consult with a healthcare provider about receiving the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine if they have not been previously immunized.Notify their healthcare provider of potential exposure, especially if they are pregnant, have an infant under one year old, have a weakened immune system, or are unvaccinated.Monitor for symptoms such as fever, unexplained rash, cough, congestion, or red watery eyes from 7 to 21 days after exposure.If symptoms develop, individuals should stay at home and contact their healthcare provider immediately.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that primarily affects the mucus membranes of the nose and throat. Transmission occurs through coughing and sneezing, with the virus capable of surviving in the air and on surfaces for a significant period. Initial symptoms include a high fever, followed by a cough, runny nose, and conjunctivitis. Notably, Koplik spots may appear in the mouth two to three days after symptoms begin, leading to a characteristic flat red rash.
Symptoms typically manifest seven to 14 days after exposure but can take as long as 21 days to appear. Fortunately, measles is preventable with two doses of the MMR vaccine, which is readily available through local healthcare providers and pharmacies.
Individuals considered susceptible to measles include:
Infants under one year old who have not yet been immunized.Children under six years who are only partially vaccinated.Individuals vaccinated with outdated or ineffective vaccines from 1963 to 1967.Anyone who has received only one dose of the vaccine.Those who have refused vaccination or come from regions with low vaccination coverage.Individuals with compromised immune systems, such as organ transplant recipients or those undergoing chemotherapy.Individuals who fit these criteria or cannot confirm their vaccination status should consult their primary healthcare provider about protecting themselves from measles.
Measles is a reportable disease in Pennsylvania. If you suspect you or your child may have measles, it’s crucial to call your healthcare provider or urgent care center before visiting in person. This helps ensure a safe visit and reduces the risk of exposing others. For assistance, contact the Montgomery County Office of Public Health at 610-278-5117 or after hours at 610-635-4300.
For additional information about measles and immunizations, visit the Montgomery County Office of Public Health’s website or consult your healthcare provider.
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