Bucks County health officials reported measles in an adult resident who had traveled to central Pennsylvania, prompting notifications for patients who may have been exposed.
The Bucks County Department of Health announced the case Monday, Nov. 9. It said the resident’s vaccination status was unclear and the person was no longer contagious.
The department notified healthcare providers whose offices the resident had visited. It said county staff would help those providers notify potentially exposed patients.
Health Director Dr. David Damsker said further Bucks County cases were possible because of the outbreak elsewhere in Pennsylvania. He urged residents who were unsure of their vaccination status to check with their doctor.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine provide the best protection against measles. It estimates that two doses are about 97% effective at preventing the disease.
Measles spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, the CDC says. People can be exposed in a room even after the infected person has left.
CDC guidance lists fever, cough, runny nose, red or watery eyes and rash among the symptoms. Complications can include pneumonia and brain swelling.
The county advises anyone who believes they were exposed and needs medical care to call the healthcare facility before arriving. Advance notice lets staff prepare for the visit.
