Measles Risk in Pennsylvania After Individual Carrying Virus Exposes Others

Pennsylvania health officials have raised alarm over possible measles outbreak following virus exposure in Delaware and Philadelphia counties.

According to CBS News, a person who may have been carrying the measles virus could have exposed others to it on December 28 and 29 at CVS Pharmacy in Delaware and Please Touch Museum in Philadelphia. Health officials have cautioned the public in general, raising concerns for high risk groups like those who have not received MMR vaccine.

"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," a public alert notice from the health department said.

Measles can lead to pneumonia, diarrhea and affect the brain. It can also cause death if left untreated. Pregnant women miscarry or deliver before term. According to UPI, 610 cases of measles were reported across 24 states in 2014, thrice the number of cases in 2013. Infections in US are attributed to foreigners as most people in the US are vaccinated.

"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," health officials said urging the public to take precautions to prevent an outbreak.