Pennsylvania has reported its first measles case of 2025, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH). The case was confirmed on February 28 in Montgomery County and is linked to an unvaccinated child who recently traveled internationally. The DOH stated that there is no immediate risk to the general public at this time.
Measles symptoms typically begin with a fever, followed by cough, runny nose, and watery eyes. A flat red rash appears on the face and spreads to other parts of the body over several days. According to health experts, measles is extremely contagious and can be transmitted through coughing and sneezing.
Experts point to declining vaccination rates worldwide since the COVID-19 pandemic as a contributing factor to the rise in measles cases. In the United States, most states now have vaccination rates below the 95% threshold for kindergartners, making them more vulnerable to outbreaks.
Measles is preventable with two doses of the MMR vaccine, which is available at local healthcare providers or pharmacies. People who are immune to the virus include those born before 1957, fully vaccinated individuals, and those who have had measles in the past. Those who are vulnerable to the virus include young children, partially vaccinated individuals, and people with compromised immune systems.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) report that two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97% effective against measles. Health officials are conducting contact tracing and notifying potentially exposed individuals to determine their vaccination status and risk for infection.
Source: https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/health/measles-montgomery-county-pennsylvania-unvaccinated-child/4122726