Holy Redeemer Hospital (Image courtesy of Google StreetView)
Another case of measles was reported in Montgomery County, this time in Abington Township, according to the Philadelphia Department of Health.
"We are saddened to report another case of measles in our region," The Philadelphia Department of Health wrote. "The vast majority of Philadelphians are likely immune to measles and are safe. This case spent time at Pennsylvania Hospital on Sunday, April 6 and at Holy Redeemer ED on Tuesday, April 8."
If you were in either of these areas and are not immune to measles, the Philadelphia Department of Health is advising people to click this link for more information.
The World Health Organization categorizes measles as a “highly contagious, serious viral disease” that “is normally passed through direct contact and the air” and can “stay on surfaces for up to two hours,” according to a Montgomery County spokesperson. Initial symptoms, seven-to-14 days after infection, include a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes, according to the CDC.
Measles is an extremely contagious airborne virus that can cause cough, fever, rash, and in serious cases, encephalitis and even death. Babies under the age of one have zero protection from measles, which is one of the reasons this is so dangerous.
Two to three days after symptoms show, tiny white bumps may appear inside the mouth. Additionally, a rash is also a telltale sign, which begins three to five days after symptoms show on the person’s face, and spreads to the neck, trunk, arms, legs, and feet.
