Philadelphia Health Officials Urging Measles Vaccinations and Quarantine Compliance
Philadelphia health officials are sounding the alarm amidst an ongoing measles outbreak, urging the public to get vaccinated and adhere to quarantine orders. At least eight confirmed cases of measles have been reported in the city as of Friday.
The outbreak originated in December when a measles-infected baby was admitted to the renowned Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Disturbingly, three other non-immune patients at the hospital later tested positive after being exposed to the virus.
Further propagation of the highly contagious disease occurred at a local day care center, where a child with measles was dropped off, ignoring quarantine directives. As a result, at least two children within the facility and three others who visited healthcare centers afterwards have tested positive for measles.
In response to the growing concern, city officials have released a list of locations where individuals may have been exposed to the virus. They emphasize that approximately 90% of people who come into close contact with an infected person will contract measles if they are not immune.
Although 93% of children in Philadelphia have received the measles vaccine, health officials stress that the virus can still pose a significant threat to vulnerable individuals such as those who are immunocompromised and infants who are too young to be vaccinated. Among young children, pneumonia is known to be the most frequent cause of death resulting from measles.
To contain the outbreak, the city has issued quarantine guidelines, urging exposed individuals to isolate at home for a period of 21 days following exposure. Officials emphasize that early signs of measles include fever, runny nose, cough, and puffy eyes, which are then followed by a characteristic rash.
For those who suspect they may be infected, health officials advise contacting their healthcare provider before visiting public offices to mitigate the risk of inadvertently exposing others to the virus.
As health authorities continue their efforts to combat the measles outbreak in Philadelphia, it is crucial for residents to remain vigilant, follow quarantine orders, and prioritize getting vaccinated against this preventable disease.
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