Delaware health authorities have reported the identification of approximately 20 to 30 individuals who were potentially exposed to a patient with measles towards the end of last month.
The State’s Division of Public Health disclosed on Thursday that the exposure occurred at Nemours Children’s Hospital in Wilmington between 6 a.m. and 12 p.m. on December 29.
Although the measles patient was asymptomatic during the exposure, it was determined that the individual was still infectious.
Monitoring Measles in Philadelphia, and Pennsylvania
Authorities in Philadelphia and Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, are actively monitoring instances of potential measles exposure.
In Montgomery County, the exposures occurred at Holy Redeemer Pediatric Urgent Care in Meadowbrook and the Jefferson Abington Hospital Emergency Department in Abington.
Individuals who suspect exposure and exhibit symptoms are encouraged to contact the Office of Infectious Disease Epidemiology during regular business hours at (302-744-4990) or the state’s 24-hour reporting line at 1-888-295-5156 outside of normal business hours.
This communication is essential to coordinate testing, receive guidance, and minimize further exposures.
Those who are unwell are advised to seek immediate healthcare attention and inform healthcare providers of their potential measles exposure.
Additionally, individuals who have not received both doses of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella vaccine are strongly advised to do so at their earliest convenience.
Measles Symptoms
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness marked by initial symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, and pink eye, lasting two to four days before the emergence of a rash.
Typically, the rash appears three to five days after symptom onset, initially affecting the face and spreading down the body.
Measles can result in severe complications, including pneumonia, brain inflammation, and death.
The virus is transmitted through direct contact with infectious droplets or airborne spread when an infected individual breathes, coughs, or sneezes.