Possible measles exposure reported at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA ( WPHL ) – Philadelphia health officials are warning about a possible measles exposure at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

The possible exposure at CHOP potentially took place on Friday, Sept. 11, at 3401 Civic Center Boulevard, officials said in an announcement Thursday night.

Here are the locations and times of the possible exposure:

CHOP NICU West Family Lounge: 9:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.

CHOP Main Cafeteria: 12:05 p.m. to 2:45 p.m.

“CHOP, the Pennsylvania Department of Health, and PDPH are working closely to ensure infants in the NICU receive a preventative antibody product to prevent or lessen severe disease and to take steps to prevent the further spread of measles,” officials said in the announcement. “PDPH is encouraging people who were exposed to check their vaccination status and watch for symptoms.”

The incident comes after the state reported two recent measles-related deaths , bringing the total this year to four.

“We encourage people to get vaccinated not only to protect themselves, but to protect those who cannot get vaccinated,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Palak Raval-Nelson. “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.”

Raval-Nelson went on to say that officials “do not believe that these exposures constitute a broad risk to Philadelphians, since the vast majority of us are fully protected due to our being vaccinated,” but urged those without protection to get their vaccinations “as soon as possible.”

“Remember, this is not just about protecting yourself, it’s about protecting our most vulnerable Philadelphians.”

Measles is highly contagious. Early symptoms can include fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes, followed by a rash.

Officials say people who develop symptoms should call their healthcare provider before going in person, so precautions can be taken to prevent potentially spreading measles to others.

For more information about measles, vaccination and possible measles exposure in the Philadelphia area and beyond, residents can visit the Philadelphia Department of Public Health website.