Measles Exposure Reported at Philadelphia Airport

An infected person was in Terminal E for nearly 3 hours, raising concerns about potential spread.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The Philadelphia Health Department has issued a warning about a person infected with measles who traveled through Terminal E of Philadelphia International Airport on February 12th, between 1:35 PM and 4:30 PM. Officials say there is no immediate threat to the general public, but are urging those potentially exposed to take action if they are not protected against measles.

Why it matters

Measles is a highly contagious airborne virus, and outbreaks have been on the rise in recent years, with cases reported in several states. This incident at a major U.S. airport raises concerns about the potential for further spread, especially among unvaccinated individuals.

The details

According to the health department, the infected person was in Terminal E of the Philadelphia airport for nearly 3 hours on February 12th. Measles can linger in the air for up to 2 hours after exposure, putting unvaccinated travelers at risk. Symptoms typically appear 7-14 days after exposure and can include high fever, cough, runny nose, and a red rash. In severe cases, measles can lead to pneumonia or brain damage.

  • The infected person was in Terminal E of Philadelphia International Airport on February 12, 2026 between 1:35 PM and 4:30 PM.

The players

Philadelphia Health Department

The local public health agency that issued the warning about the measles exposure at the Philadelphia airport.

Dr. Palak Raval-Nelson

The Philadelphia Health Commissioner who stated that officials do not believe there is a threat to the general public, but urged those potentially exposed to take action.

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What they’re saying

“We encourage people who were possibly exposed to take action if they are not protected against measles.”

— Dr. Palak Raval-Nelson, Health Commissioner, Philadelphia Health Department (CBS News)

What’s next

The Philadelphia Health Department is advising anyone who was in Terminal E of the airport during the specified time period and is not vaccinated against measles to contact their healthcare provider.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing threat of measles outbreaks, especially at high-traffic transportation hubs like airports. It underscores the importance of vaccination to protect both individual and public health, and the need for vigilance in monitoring and responding to potential exposures.