PHILADELPHIA, Pa. —
Health officials have issued a warning to travelers after a possible measles exposure was reported at Philadelphia International Airport (PHL).
According to the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, the potential exposure occurred Sunday, November 9, between 8:50 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., in Terminals A and B. An individual with a confirmed case of measles was traveling through the airport during that time frame.
Measles is highly contagious and can spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks — and the virus can remain in the air for up to two hours after that person leaves.
Common symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash that typically begins several days after exposure. Health officials stress that complications can occur, including pneumonia, brain infection, and, in rare cases, death.
Philadelphia Health Commissioner Dr. Palak Raval-Nelson said there is no ongoing threat to the general public, but those who may have been exposed and are not immune should take precautionary measures.
⚠️ Health Officials Advise:
- Confirm your immunity: People born before 1957, those who previously had measles, or those with two documented doses of the MMR vaccine are generally protected.
- If not immune, contact your healthcare provider about getting vaccinated.
- Individuals under 12 months, pregnant and not immune, or those who are immunocompromised should contact a doctor immediately.
- Anyone who develops symptoms through November 30 should contact a healthcare provider and notify local health authorities.
- People who are not immune and may have been exposed should wear a mask in indoor public spaces for three weeks after the exposure.
Officials also remind the public that travel-related measles cases have been increasing globally, and staying up to date with vaccinations remains the best protection.
Anyone who was at PHL Terminals A or B during the listed times and is unsure of their immunity should contact their doctor and monitor for symptoms.
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