Title: Measles Outbreak Traces Back to Philadelphia Children’s Hospital, Health Department Reports
The City of Philadelphia Health Department has issued a warning after identifying six locations in the city where people may have been exposed to the measles virus since late December. The outbreak, which originated at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, has already resulted in six confirmed cases and three presumed cases as of January 5.
Health officials believe that one of the initial cases went to a day care instead of following the recommended quarantine protocol, leading to further spread of the virus. Consequently, authorities are strongly advising individuals who may have been exposed to measles to voluntarily quarantine themselves by staying at home and away from others.
The Philadelphia Health Department has identified several locations where exposure may have occurred. These include Jefferson Health building at 33 S 9th/833 Chestnut St, Multicultural Education Station Day Care at 6919 Castor Ave, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Emergency Room at 3401 Civic Center Blvd, St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children Emergency Department, St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children inpatient unit 5 North, and Nazareth Hospital Emergency Room.
People who were in these buildings on the specified dates and are not immune to measles are strongly urged to immediately contact their healthcare provider or pediatrician, informing them about their possible exposure.
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection, with approximately 90% of unvaccinated individuals who come in contact with the virus contracting the disease. Typical symptoms of measles include fever, runny nose, cough, puffy eyes, and a rash. In some cases, measles can lead to severe complications and even death.
In light of this outbreak, health authorities are urging individuals who have not been vaccinated against measles, or who have not had their children vaccinated, to reach out to their healthcare providers as soon as possible. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the spread of measles.
For more information about how to get a measles vaccine, individuals are encouraged to visit the official Phila.gov website. Taking swift action to protect oneself and others is paramount in preventing further transmission of this highly contagious disease.
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