Measles outbreak declared in Delaware; cases also rising in Chester County, Pa.

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Measles outbreak declared in Delaware; cases also rising in Chesco

DOVER, Del. (WPVI) -- Health officials in Delaware and Chester County, Pennsylvania, are urging residents to get vaccinated as measles cases continue to climb across the region.

Delaware authorities formally declared a measles outbreak on Wednesday after confirming four cases, all involving unvaccinated adult men in Kent County, Delaware.

Dr. Robert Rosenbaum, medical director of the Delaware EMS and Preparedness section, said officials are still working to determine how the patients contracted the airborne virus.

"Measles is a highly contagious disease. It's why we vaccinate for it," he said.

Rosenbaum added that investigators are conducting "extensive contact tracing for the patients we identified, and we're watching to see if there are any additional cases."

Chester County's public health director reported 13 confirmed measles cases and anticipates more.

Residents expressed concern about the growing numbers.

"It's concerning, and I wouldn't be surprised if the numbers go up," said Taylor Williams of Claymont, Del.

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Health leaders warn that measles can lead to severe complications and even death. They continue to encourage vaccination to protect vulnerable groups, including infants, older adults and people who are immunocompromised.

Rosenbaum emphasized the effectiveness of the vaccine, noting that "the immunity and protection rate with the full vaccination series is well over 97%. If you're vaccinated, you are extremely well protected."

He said individuals are considered immune if they were born before 1957, have lab-confirmed immunity, or received two doses of the vaccine between ages 12 and 15 months and again between ages 4 and 6.

Some residents voiced support for vaccination efforts.

"I feel it's the right thing to do, but everybody has their own choice in what they have to do, and they have to live with their decisions," said Joseph Morris of Ocean City, NJ.

Rosenbaum said Delaware is working to expand vaccination access through clinics and mobile units.

Vaccines are also available at pharmacies and primary care offices. Early symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose and pink eye. Health officials advise anyone experiencing these signs to seek immediate care.