Measles Cases Came Back Negative, Pa. Says

The Pennsylvania Department of Health had issued a public health warning of a possible measles exposure that occurred at a CVS Pharmacy located at 316 E. Lancaster Ave in Wayne on Sunday Dec. 28, 2014. Another alleged exposure was issued Monday, Dec. 29, 2014, at the Please Touch Museum, Memorial Hall, Fairmount Park, 4231 Avenue of the Republic. However, the measles' cases came back negative Friday, according to health officials. 

"Based on initial information received from those involved in the treatment of the individual and based on initial investigation by the department, it was believed this was a likely case of measles and public notification was made out of an abundance of caution," said Health Secretary Michael Wolf, in a news release according to Philly. "Measles is a highly contagious disease and there is a small window of time after exposure to receive the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine or immunoglobulin for those who have not been vaccinated. . . . Since Wednesday, further investigation was conducted and samples were taken for testing by the state's lab, which confirmed the individual has tested negative and there is no public health risk for measles at this time."

This serious infectious disease can spread through the cough or sneeze of an infected person. The symptoms of measles usually begin following seven to 21 days after the infection has entered the body, with symptoms including but not limited to rash, fever, itchy and/or water eyes and respiratory issues. 

Fortunately, the health problem can be prevented. However, catching it and treating it early on is critical via the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine that is typically given to an infected individual within three days of exposure to the virus.

In the United States, the MMR vaccine is first given in childhood between the ages of 12 and 15 months. A second dose is given again between the ages of 4 and 6 years. However, infants under the age of 12 months who have not been vaccinated are not protected from the disease. 

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