PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — The Philadelphia Division of Public Well being formally introduced the top of the citywide measles outbreak that elevated between December 2023 and January 2024 on Tuesday.
The outbreak affected 9 folks, eight of whom (two adults and 6 youngsters) have been from Philadelphia. Well being Division officers stated six of Philadelphia's constructive circumstances have been hospitalized at one level however have since been discharged.
READ MORE: Measles circumstances rose 79% globally final yr, WHO says. Specialists clarify why.
The tip of the outbreak comes after the town went 42 days with out a new case of the illness. In keeping with well being officers, 93% of Philadelphians are updated on their measles vaccine, so the outbreak has not unfold additional.
“Because of the fast work of our employees and collaboration with well being care and youngster care methods throughout the area, we have been capable of maintain this outbreak small and resolve it shortly,” Dr. Landrus Burress, director of illness management of the Division of Well being. . “I’m grateful to the a whole bunch of hundreds of Philadelphians who’ve safely obtained their MMR vaccine; you helped maintain us protected.”
RELATED: After publicity to measles within the Philadelphia area, what you have to know in regards to the virus, signs and the vaccine
The Philadelphia Division of Public Well being hosted pop-up clinics throughout the town the place residents might obtain the MMR vaccine, which protects towards measles, mumps and rubella, free of charge.
The MMR vaccine may be very efficient at stopping measles and the issues that accompany the illness, the CDC says. In case you are not vaccinated, getting the vaccine quickly after a measles publicity can assist stop the illness or make it much less extreme, in response to the CDC.
Because the measles outbreak involves an finish, well being officers suggest that Philadelphians discuss to their main care suppliers to see if they should atone for their MMR vaccination schedule.