A new measles case has been confirmed in Philadelphia, with possible exposure at two area hospitals. The individual, who had traveled internationally, is not considered a public health threat. However, health officials are urging unvaccinated individuals who were exposed to take precautions.
The Department of Public Health reports that people who visited the emergency department at Pennsylvania Hospital on Sunday between 3:55 p.m. and 11:20 p.m., or Holy Redeemer Hospital in Meadowbrook, Montgomery County, between Tuesday 6:05 p.m. and 9:45 p.m., may have been exposed to the virus.
Unvaccinated individuals who were exposed are advised to quarantine for 21 days after their exposure, wear masks if they must leave their homes, and get vaccinated as soon as possible. Health officials emphasize that vaccination rates across the country continue to drop, making it essential for those not already immune to get vaccinated.
Early measles symptoms include a fever, runny nose, cough, and puffy eyes, followed by a rash. The virus spreads rapidly among unvaccinated individuals through droplets caused by sick people coughing and sneezing. Measles can be fatal to infants, young children, and those with weakened immune systems.
Health officials remind the public that vaccination is highly effective at preventing measles. One dose of the MMR vaccine is 93% effective, while two doses are 97% effective. Residents are encouraged to get vaccinated as soon as possible and can find information on how to do so on the Department of Public Health’s website.
Source: https://www.phillyvoice.com/measles-philly-exposure-pennsylvania-hospital-holy-redeemer