A possible exposure to measles occurred at Philadelphia International Airport on February 12, announced officials of the Philadelphia Department of Public Health.
Any travelers in Terminal E of the airport on February 12 between 1:35-4:30 pm are considered at risk of potential exposure. Health department officials are asking all people who were potentially exposed to check their vaccination status and watch for symptoms.
“We believe there is no threat to the general public associated with this measles case,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Palak Raval-Nelson in a press release. “We encourage people who may have been exposed to take action if they are not protected against measles.”
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What is measles?
Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air through coughing, sneezing and talking. In the most severe cases, measles can lead to pneumonia, brain infection or death.
Those unprotected against measles can get the virus up to two hours after an infected person leaves a room or shared airspace.
Measles symptoms
Early symptoms may appear up to two weeks after exposure. They can include fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes and rash.
An American Airlines passenger plane is parked at a gate at Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) in Philadelphia on December 13, 2024.
Measles immunity
According to health department officials, the following exposed people should be immune from measles:
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Those who have already had measles.
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Those who received two doses of the MMR vaccine.
If you meet any of the above criteria, you are considered protected and you don’t have to do anything. If you do not meet someone, you are advised to talk to a health care provider as soon as possible.
The MMR vaccine is the best way to prevent measles or related complications, according to health department officials. Anyone over 12 months old is eligible for the vaccine, but exceptions can be made for babies traveling internationally.
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Philadelphia Department of Public Health officials said there has been an increase in measles activity, with 588 confirmed cases reported to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2026 through the end of January.
“Many countries, including travel destinations, are experiencing measles outbreaks, so the risk of travel-related measles cases remains,” Raval-Nelson said. “In addition, measles cases and outbreaks have continued to increase in the United States, including a very large and ongoing outbreak in South Carolina.”
If you were potentially exposed at the airport and are not immune, health department officials recommend that you watch for symptoms and wear a mask in public spaces for the next three weeks.
If you develop any symptoms such as measles by March 5, you are advised to immediately contact a doctor and officials of the local health department.
Risha Inaganti writes about trending topics around South Jersey for the Courier-Post. If you have a story to tell, email it to rinaganti@usatodayco.com. Subscribe to stay updated on the news you need.
This article originally appeared on the Cherry Hill Courier-Post: Philadelphia health officials issue warning to recent airport visitors