Philadelphia and Montgomery County officials are on alert after identifying areas where residents may have been exposed to measles, a highly contagious virus. According to FOX 29, locations of concern include CVS Pharmacy on Bustleton Avenue and the emergency and medical-surgical units at Holy Redeemer Hospital. People who were present at these spots during specified times on May 15 and 16 could be at risk.

In light of the potential exposure, health authorities are informing the public about the early signs of the disease, which include fever, runny nose, cough and red, swollen eyes—followed by a characteristic rash. Serious complications from measles can escalate to organ inflammation, brain infections or even death. Dr. Richard Lorraine, medical director at the Montgomery County Office of Public Health warned in a statement obtained by 6abc that despite the area's high vaccination rates, which range from 93 to 95 percent, herd immunity typically requires a threshold of 96 to 97 percent.

In response to possible exposures, officials advise anyone who is not immune and may have been exposed to monitor for symptoms until June 7, 2024. If you develop any symptoms that appear like measles, contact your doctor immediately, officials cautioned. Local health departments are prepared to handle reports of symptoms and offer additional guidance, along with providing access to the MMR vaccine for those who are uninsured or underinsured. This information was highlighted by NBC Philadelphia, emphasizing that vaccines are available at no cost for those in need within Montgomery County.

Travelers are also urged to be cautious, as many countries are currently grappling with measles outbreaks. For residents seeking more details on measles, prevention, or assistance, information is readily available on the CDC’s webpage. Those in Montgomery County without health insurance or those who have not yet received an MMR vaccine can access vaccines without cost by contacting the county's public health clinics.