World’s most contagious virus hits major US airport as officials warn of possible exposure

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The City ofPhiladelphiais reporting two possible measles exposures within a week — the latest at Philadelphia International Airport.

The exposure took place at airport terminals B and F, as well as areas used to connect to other terminals in C, D and E, on Sunday, Sept.13, from 7:45 p.m.to Monday, Sept.14 at 12:05 a.m., according to the Philadelphia Department of Public Health.

The individual with measles was traveling through Philadelphia and did not leave the airport.Health officialsencouraged those who were potentially exposed to check their vaccination status and watch for symptoms.

MEASLES-INFECTED TRAVELER MAY HAVE EXPOSED PASSENGERS AT LAX AND NEARBY HOTEL, HEALTH OFFICIALS WARN

This was the second reported measles exposure in the Philadelphia area, after the first case reported on Sept.17 at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP).

The Philadelphia Department of Public Health reported a potential measles exposure at Philadelphia International Airport on Sunday, Sept.13.(Getty Images)

The incident occurred on Sept.11 at the following locations.

CHOP NICU West: 9:30 a.m.to 4:15 p.m.
CHOP NICU West Family Lounge: 9:30 a.m.to 4:15 p.m.
CHOP Atrium: 9:30 a.m.to 4:15 p.m.
CHOP Main Cafeteria: 12:05 p.m.– 2:45 p.m.

ThePennsylvaniaand Philadelphia health departments, as well as CHOP, reported that they are “working closely to ensure potentially exposed infants receive a preventative antibody product to prevent or lessen severe disease and to take steps to prevent the further spread of measles.”

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In the second news release, Health Commissioner Dr.Palak Raval-Nelson wrote that this week’s measles exposures are “a reminder of how important it is for all of us to be up to date on ourvaccinations.”

Doctor examines child's leg with red rash and skin irritation.

Early measles symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes.A measles rash follows a few days later, starting on the head and spreading down to the rest of the body.(iStock)

“Every Philadelphian who is fully vaccinated has little to fear from the situation at CHOP and the airport,” she said.“Even more importantly, every one of those people is doing their part to help protect our most vulnerable from measles.With outbreaks continuing in Pennsylvania and other places, this is even more important.”

The health department advised that anyone who has been exposed who is not immune, is unsure of their vaccination status, is an infant, ispregnantand not immune, or is immunocompromised should contact their doctor.

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“Some people may still be eligible for treatment after exposure that can prevent measles or reduce the severity of illness,” the department wrote.“Anyone who develops symptoms should call ahead before visiting a healthcare facility and tell the provider about the possible measles exposure.”

In August, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania confirmedtwo measles-related deaths, marking the first losses related to the virus within the state in 35 years.

A box of the MMR vaccine, closeup of gloved hand holding box of the MMR vaccine next to a vial of the vaccine.

Officials recommend that all children should be vaccinated against measles.(Raquel Natalicchio/Houston Chronicle via Getty Images)

The Pennsylvania Department of Health confirmed that both Lancaster County individuals were unvaccinated.

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The MMR vaccine administered over two doses can boost a person’s immune system and provide 97% lifetime protection, according to health officials.

Measlesis a highly contagious virus that can be fatal in one to three patients per 1,000 cases, data shows.

The virus can cause long-term health problems, including pneumonia and brain swelling.Nearly 20% of individuals who contract measles are hospitalized.

Woman with red, spotty rash on upper back and shoulders.

Measles symptoms can start seven to 21 days after exposure.Those who believe they were exposed to measles should contact a healthcare provider.(iStock)

Measles spreads when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes, spreading the virus through respiratory droplets.It can remain infectious in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours after the person leaves the area, experts caution.

Early symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes, which can start seven to 21 days after exposure.A rashfollows a few days later, starting on the head and spreading to the rest of the body.