Health officials warn of possible measles exposure in Delco, Philly

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- The Pennsylvania Department of Health is advising the public of potential exposure to a case of measles in Delaware and Philadelphia counties.

Officials say a person who likely has measles may have exposed other people to the disease on the following dates at these locations and times:

Officials say although the vaccine for measles is highly effective, the following groups of individuals are at risk of becoming infected if they have had contact with an infected individual:

Measles is caused by a highly contagious virus. Symptoms will begin one to two weeks after exposure and include a runny nose, watery eyes, cough and a high fever. After four days, a raised, red rash starts to spread on the face, down the body and out to the arms and legs. The rash usually lasts four to seven days.

An individual with measles can spread the virus to others for four days before and four days after the rash begins. It is spread by sneezing or coughing, touching contaminated objects, and direct contact with infected nasal or throat secretions.

Infected droplets and secretions can remain contagious on surfaces for up to two hours.

Complications from measles can include ear infection, diarrhea and pneumonia, inflammation of the brain, and even death. Measles can also cause miscarriages or premature delivery in pregnant women.

The MMR vaccine can help prevent infection if it is given within three days of exposure. If it has been more than three days since your exposure, a dose of immune globulin can provide protection up to six days after exposure.

There is no risk in getting an additional dose of the MMR vaccine for individuals who may have already received it.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health urges all residents to be vaccinated against measles.

If you are not immune to measles and want to receive MMR or immune globulin, ask your healthcare provider or contact the Pennsylvania Department of Health at 1-877-PA-HEALTH.