Health Officials Warning Philadelphians After Case Of Measles Identified In Resident

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - A case of measles has been identified in an unvaccinated Philadelphia resident who recently traveled to Thailand, according to public health officials.

The Philadelphia Department of Public Health is working with the hospital where the case was treated to identify and contact any individuals who may have been exposed to the virus which spreads easily through the air via coughs and sneezes.

Officials believe anyone who was at Barcade, a bar in the 1100 block of Frankford Avenue in Fishtown, on the evening of May 12th and the morning of May 13th may have been exposed to the virus.

Measles can result in a fever, rash, and a cough, runny nose and/or watery eyes. Those who are not immune to measles are highly susceptible to infection, officials say. People who were at Barcade during the aforementioned dates should monitor their health for measles signs and symptoms between now and May 31st .

If symptoms develop, individuals are encouraged to contact their doctor immediately and inform them of their measles exposure.

Health officials say most adults in the United States are protected from measles as a result of childhood measles vaccinations or because prior measles disease created immunity. However, individuals are encouraged to consult with their health care provider or review vaccination records to determine if they are at risk for getting this infection.

According to the Department of Health:

Individuals who are NOT protected against measles are:
• Infants who are too young to have been immunized (less than one year of age).
• Persons who were vaccinated with an inactivated vaccine, which was used from 1963 through 1967, and have not been revaccinated.
• Persons born after 1957 who have not received two doses of measles-containing vaccine.
• Persons from areas of the world where there is low vaccine coverage and circulating measles.

For more information about measles and the MMR vaccine contact the Philadelphia Department of Public Health at 215-685-6740 or visit www.phila.gov.