Health officials in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania have confirmed a case of measles in an unvaccinated child. This alarming news comes on the heels of three reported cases in New Jersey, alongside a significant outbreak in Texas, where dozens of cases have been recorded. The child’s specific hometown has not been disclosed, but health officials have stated that it is possible members of the public may have been exposed to the virus.
The Montgomery County Office of Public Health announced on Sunday that contact tracing is currently underway. Individuals who may have come into contact with the infected child are being notified. Potential exposure locations and times include:
February 25-26, 2025: China Airlines Airport Shuttle Bus departing from JFK Airport Terminal 4, arriving at North Philadelphia. February 25 at 9:30 p.m. to February 26 at 3:15 a.m. Pho Ha Saigon, 575 Adams Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19120. February 26, 2025: True North Pediatrics Associates of Plymouth, 3031 Walton Rd., C101, Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462, from 11:45 a.m. – 2:15 p.m. February 26, 2025: CHOP King of Prussia Campus Emergency Department, 550 S. Goddard Blvd., King of Prussia, PA 19406, from 12:52 p.m. – 3:02 p.m.Health officials urge anyone who suspects that they or their child may have contracted measles to contact their healthcare provider, urgent care, or hospital emergency room before leaving home. This protocol is crucial to ensure a safe visit and minimize the risk of exposing staff and other patients. For immediate assistance, you can also contact the Montgomery County Office of Public Health at 610-278-5117.
Healthcare providers are required to report any suspected cases of measles to the Office of Public Health at the same number, or after hours at 610-635-4300. The measles virus can remain airborne and on surfaces for up to two hours, making it extremely contagious. If someone breathes in contaminated air or touches an infected surface before touching their face, they may become infected.
In light of this outbreak, health officials continue to advocate for vaccination against measles. The measles vaccine is considered safe and highly effective in preventing the disease. People who are properly immunized have a minimal risk of contracting measles. Individuals who believe they may have been exposed should:
Review their immunization records to confirm protection against measles. Consult their healthcare provider about receiving the MMR vaccine if they haven’t been previously vaccinated. Notify their healthcare provider about potential exposure, particularly if they are pregnant, have an infant under 1 year old, or have a weakened immune system. Monitor for symptoms such as fever, rash, cough, and conjunctivitis from 7 to 21 days after exposure.Individuals considered at risk for measles include:
Infants under one year of age who are too young to be vaccinated. Children who are only partially vaccinated. Persons vaccinated with an inactivated or unknown vaccine type from 1963 to 1967. Those who received only one dose of the vaccine after 1957. Individuals who have refused vaccination. People from regions with low vaccination coverage or ongoing measles outbreaks. Immunocompromised individuals, such as organ transplant recipients and those undergoing chemotherapy.Anyone fitting these criteria or unable to verify their immune status should reach out to their primary healthcare provider for guidance on protecting themselves against measles.
Measles is an exceptionally contagious virus that resides in the mucus membranes of the nose and throat of infected individuals. The virus spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Healthy individuals who inhale contaminated air or touch infected surfaces can easily contract the virus. Symptoms typically manifest 7-14 days after exposure, but can take as long as 21 days to appear.
The initial symptoms include a high fever, cough, runny nose, and conjunctivitis. Subsequently, tiny white spots known as Koplik spots may appear in the mouth, followed by a flat red rash that begins at the hairline and spreads down to the neck, trunk, and extremities. Measles is preventable through two doses of the MMR vaccine, which is available at local healthcare providers or pharmacies.
For further assistance and recommendations regarding testing, outbreak prevention, and disease management, contact the Montgomery County Office of Public Health at 610-278-5117. For more comprehensive information about measles and immunizations, visit their official website.
