Health Officials Warn of Measles Exposure at Philadelphia Airport

Travelers in Terminal E may have been exposed to the highly contagious virus.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Philadelphia Department of Public Health has issued a warning about a possible measles exposure at the Philadelphia International Airport on Thursday, February 16th, between 1:35 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. EST. The exposure occurred in Terminal E, and health officials are urging those who may have been in the area during that time to check their vaccination status and watch for symptoms.

Why it matters

Measles is a highly contagious virus that can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia and brain infection. This warning is important to help prevent the spread of the disease, especially in light of the ongoing measles outbreak in the United States.

The details

The person with measles was traveling through Philadelphia. Those who are not protected against measles can contract the virus up to two hours after an infected person has left the room or airspace. Early symptoms include fever, runny nose, cough, and red, watery eyes, followed by a rash. Symptoms may not appear for up to 21 days.

  • The exposure time was from 1:35 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. EST on Thursday, February 16, 2026.

The players

Philadelphia Department of Public Health

The local health department that issued the warning about the measles exposure at the Philadelphia International Airport.

Dr. Palak Raval-Nelson

The Health Commissioner of the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, who stated that there is no threat to the general public associated with this case of measles.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We believe there is no threat to the general public associated with this case of measles.”

— Dr. Palak Raval-Nelson, Health Commissioner, Philadelphia Department of Public Health (Breitbart)

What’s next

The health department is encouraging those who may have been exposed to check their vaccination status and watch for symptoms of measles.

The takeaway

This measles exposure highlights the importance of vaccination, especially in light of the ongoing outbreaks in the United States. Health officials are urging the public to stay vigilant and get vaccinated to protect themselves and their communities.