Measles exposure at PHL airport

A traveler with measles was at Philadelphia International Airport on the night of September 13, passing through Terminals B, C, D, E and F between 7:25 p.m. and 12:05 a.m.

Who was exposed

Anyone who was in those terminals during that time window may have been exposed to the highly contagious virus. The person was passing through Philadelphia and did not leave the airport.

How measles spreads

Measles spreads when people cough, sneeze or talk. Those who aren't vaccinated can contract it up to two hours after someone with the disease has left the room.

Measles symptoms to watch

Symptoms include fever, runny nose, cough, red and watery eyes and rashes. In severe cases, measles can cause brain infection or death.

Who is protected

People are generally considered immune if they were born before 1957, have received two doses of the MMR vaccine, or have had measles before. The first dose is recommended at 12 to 15 months old and the second between ages 4 and 6.

What to do if exposed

Those exposed but not immune should get an MMR vaccine dose and wear a mask indoors for three weeks. Some people can get treatment after exposure that prevents the disease or reduces severity.

If you develop symptoms

Call your doctor and tell them about the exposure before going to a healthcare facility. Do not show up without warning, as this helps prevent spreading the virus.

Separate CHOP exposure

This airport exposure is separate from a measles exposure reported on September 11 in the neonatal intensive care unit at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

Health commissioner's message

Philadelphia Health Commissioner Palak Raval-Nelson said these exposures remind everyone how important vaccination is. Fully vaccinated Philadelphians have little to fear and help protect vulnerable people.

“Every Philadelphian who is fully vaccinated has little to fear from the situation at CHOP and the airport.”