Possible Measles Exposures in Bucks and Lancaster Counties

Author: Pennsylvania Department of Health - Contact: www.health.state.pa.us
Published: 2011/05/05 - Updated: 2015/02/05
Topic: Warnings and Advisories - Publications List

Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main

Synopsis: Suspected cases of measles in Bucks County with a possible link to Lancaster County Pennsylvania.

Introduction

PA Department of Health Advisory: Possible Measles Exposures in Bucks, Lancaster Counties.

Main Item

The Pennsylvania Department of Health is conducting an ongoing investigation of suspected cases of measles in Bucks County with a possible link to Lancaster County.

On April 19, people in certain Lancaster County locations may have been exposed to contagious individuals at the following locations and times:

Most people in the United States are immune to measles, either because they received the Measles Mumps Rubella, (known as the MMR) vaccine in childhood, or because they were exposed to measles in the pre-vaccine era.

However, the following groups of individuals are at risk of becoming infected with measles:

If you or your children are at risk for measles and become ill with the symptoms of this disease (see below) one to two weeks after possible exposure, you should tell your health care provider that you've been exposed to measles so that precautions can be taken to avoid exposing anyone else.

Any health care provider who suspects measles should immediately call their local health department or the Pennsylvania Department of Health at 1-877-PA-HEALTH for consultation and to arrange testing.

Measles is caused by a highly contagious virus. Symptoms 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. An individual with measles can spread the virus to others for four days before and four days after the rash begins. It is spread during sneezing or coughing, by touching contaminated objects, and by direct contact with infected nasal or throat secretions. Infected droplets and secretions can remain contagious on surfaces for up to two hours.

Complications from measles can include ear infection, diarrhea and pneumonia, encephalitis (an inflammation of the brain) and even death. Measles can also cause miscarriages or premature delivery in pregnant women.

The MMR vaccine is given to toddlers when they are 12 to 15 months of age, and a second dose is required for all Pennsylvania school children. However, individuals who have received only one dose of the vaccine, instead of the recommended two doses, may still be at risk of infection with this virus. The MMR vaccine can help prevent infection if it is given within three days of exposure. There is no risk in getting an additional dose of the MMR vaccine for individuals who may have already received it.

If you are not immune to measles and want to receive MMR ask your health care provider or contact the Pennsylvania Department of Health at 1-877-PA-HEALTH.

For more information about measles, visit www.health.state.pa.us/pdf/epi/MeaslesFactSheet.pdf

Explore Similar Topics

- U.S. Department Of Justice warns of inaccurate flyers and postings regarding the use of face masks and The Americans With Disabilities Act.

- Regular updates, statistics, warnings, and current information resources from the U.S. CDC regarding the new novel coronavirus, referred to as 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV).

Citing Information and Page References

Disabled World (DW) is a comprehensive online resource providing information and news related to disabilities, assistive technologies, and accessibility. Founded in 2004 our website covers a wide range of topics, including disability rights, healthcare, education, employment, and independent living, with the goal of supporting the disability community and their families.

Cite This Page (APA): Pennsylvania Department of Health. (2011, May 5 - Last revised: 2015, February 5). Possible Measles Exposures in Bucks and Lancaster Counties. Disabled World (DW). Retrieved February 9, 2025 from www.disabled-world.com/disability/emergency/advisories/measles-outbreak.php

Permalink: <a href="https://www.disabled-world.com/disability/emergency/advisories/measles-outbreak.php">Possible Measles Exposures in Bucks and Lancaster Counties</a>: Suspected cases of measles in Bucks County with a possible link to Lancaster County Pennsylvania.

While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, it's important to note that our content is for general informational purposes only. We always recommend consulting qualified healthcare professionals for personalized medical advice. Any 3rd party offering or advertising does not constitute an endorsement.