Philadelphia health officials have issued a public health alert after a possible measles exposure was identified at Philadelphia International Airport, marking the second potential exposure reported in the city in less than a week.
According to the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, the exposure occurred between Sunday, September 12, and Monday, September 14, 2026.
The individual involved was travelling through Philadelphia and remained inside the airport during the identified exposure period.
Multiple airport terminals affected
Health officials said the potential exposure occurred in Terminals B and F, as well as connecting areas serving Terminals C, D and E.
Authorities have urged people who may have been present in the affected areas during the specified period to check their measles vaccination status and monitor themselves for symptoms.
The warning follows another possible measles exposure reported on September 17 at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP).
The Pennsylvania Department of Health, Philadelphia Department of Public Health and CHOP said they were working together to protect potentially exposed infants and limit further transmission.
The agencies said they were taking steps to provide preventive antibody treatment to infants who may have been exposed and could be at increased risk of developing the disease.
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Measles can spread through the air
Measles is one of the most contagious infectious diseases and can spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
The virus can remain suspended in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left an area, allowing people who were not in direct contact with the infected individual to potentially be exposed.
Health officials have advised potentially exposed people to remain alert for symptoms.
Common symptoms can include fever, cough, runny nose, red or watery eyes and a characteristic rash. In some cases, measles can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia and inflammation of the brain, which can cause long-term health problems.
Officials are continuing to monitor the situation and have urged people to ensure their vaccinations are up to date.
