Philadelphia health officials reported a possible measles exposure at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) on Sept. 11, with preventive antibody treatments being administered to infants in the neonatal intensive care unit, according to the city’s Department of Public Health. The exposure occurred at multiple locations on the hospital’s main campus, including the NICU West, NICU West family lounge, CHOP Atrium, and main cafeteria.

Exposure Timeline and Locations

The potential exposure times and locations are as follows: NICU West and family lounge from 9:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.; the CHOP Atrium from 9:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.; and the main cafeteria from 12:05 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. A person visiting the hospital that day tested positive for measles, the city health department confirmed.

City health officials and the Pennsylvania Department of Health are collaborating with CHOP to administer a preventive antibody product to babies in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) to either prevent the disease or reduce its severity, according to a press release from the city health department.

Public Health Advisory and Symptoms

The Philadelphia Department of Public Health is urging the public to check their vaccination status and monitor for symptoms. Measles symptoms include fever, runny nose, cough, and red, watery eyes, followed by a rash, according to health officials. Symptoms typically appear seven to 14 days after exposure.

Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can linger in the air for hours, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported. It can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, brain infection, and in rare cases, death.

“We encourage people to get vaccinated not only to protect themselves, but to protect those who cannot get vaccinated. This is why it is imperative that everyone who is eligible gets up to date on the vaccines they need so we can protect our most vulnerable,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Palak Raval-Nelson in a statement.

Response and Hospital Silence

Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia did not respond to requests for additional comments or details. The hospital is working to prevent further spread of the disease, according to the city health department’s release. Public health leaders are also reminding individuals that measles is preventable in adults with a vaccine.

Philadelphia health officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and seek medical attention if they experience symptoms after potential exposure. The city’s health department continues to monitor the situation and provide updates as needed.