Philadelphia Department of Public Health officials announced a possible measles exposure at Philadelphia International Airport on February 12.
Any passenger present at the airport’s Terminal E between 1:35 pm and 4:30 pm on February 12 is considered to be potentially exposed. Health department officials are asking anyone who may have been exposed to the virus to check their vaccination status and watch for symptoms.
“We do not believe this case of measles poses a threat to the public,” Health Commissioner Dr. Palak Rawal-Nelson said in a news release. “We encourage those who may have been exposed to measles to take action if they do not have measures to prevent 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.
People who are not protected against measles can become infected with the virus for 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 may include fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes and rash.
On December 13, 2024, an American Airlines passenger plane parked at the gate of Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) in Philadelphia.
measles immunity
According to health department officials, the following contacts should be immune to measles:
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Those who have already had measles.
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People who have received two doses of MMR vaccine.
If you meet any of the above criteria, you are considered protected and no action is required. If you are not experiencing any problems, it is recommended that you contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible.
Health department officials say the MMR vaccine is the best way to avoid measles or related complications. Anyone over 12 months old is eligible for the vaccine, with possible exceptions for babies traveling internationally.
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Philadelphia Department of Public Health officials said measles activity has increased, and as of the end of January, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had received 588 confirmed cases in 2026.
“Many countries, including travel destinations, are experiencing measles outbreaks, so the risk of travel-related measles cases remains,” LaVar-Nelson said. “In addition, measles cases and outbreaks continue to increase in the United States, including South Carolina, which is experiencing a large measles outbreak.”
If you may have been exposed to the virus at the airport and are not immune, health department officials recommend that you pay close attention to symptoms and wear a mask in public settings for the next three weeks.
If you developed any measles-like symptoms before March 5, you are advised to contact your doctor and local health department officials immediately.
Risha Inaganti writes about hot topics in South Jersey for The Courier-Mail. If you have a story worthy of her telling, please email rinaganti@usatodayco.com. Subscribe to get your latest news need.
This article originally appeared in the Cherry Hill Courier-Post: Philadelphia health officials issue warning to recent airport visitors
