Travelers hustling through Terminal E at Philadelphia International Airport last Thursday afternoon may have gotten more than a boarding pass. Philadelphia health officials say a person with measles moved through the terminal between 1:35 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., and anyone in that area who is not protected against measles may have been exposed. People who were there and are not immune are being urged to watch for symptoms through March 5 and to contact their doctor if they get sick.
According to NBC10 Philadelphia, the Philadelphia Department of Public Health issued the alert on Sunday and reminded residents that measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even talks. Officials say they have pinpointed the exposure window to Terminal E and are encouraging anyone unsure of their measles immunity to dig up their vaccination records.
Why officials are concerned
Health experts are not overreacting here. Measles can hang in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves a space, and people with measles are contagious from four days before a rash appears through four days after it shows up, according to the CDC. Put that in a crowded airport terminal and you have a recipe for potential spread. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also reports 910 confirmed measles cases in the United States so far this year, as of last Thursday.
Where to get vaccinated in Philly
The City of Philadelphia posts vaccine and exposure updates on phila.gov and offers free MMR vaccine at City Health Centers. The city site lists clinic hours and contact information for residents who do not have insurance. If you are not sure about your records, the health department advises requesting your immunization history or calling 215-685-6740 for guidance.
If you were exposed
For people who cannot show evidence of immunity, the CDC notes that a dose of MMR vaccine given within 72 hours of exposure may prevent or lessen infection. Immunoglobulin given within six days of exposure can be offered to high-risk contacts. Pregnant people, infants under 12 months, and severely immunocompromised people who may have been exposed are urged to contact their health care provider immediately for specific advice.
Local numbers and recent trend
Pennsylvania has recorded five confirmed measles cases so far this year, according to reporting by FOX29 Philadelphia. Hoodline previously covered an earlier, separate possible measles exposure at PHL in November in a prior story on local alerts for travelers.
If you were in Terminal E during the exposure window, health officials want you to check your immunization records and call your doctor before showing up at a clinic so staff can take precautions if needed. Both the city’s measles page and the CDC offer up to date guidance on symptoms, vaccine timing, and what to do after a possible exposure.
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