Measles Exposure Alert: PA Nissan & Wawa Locations | Montgomery County 2026
Health officials in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, are alerting residents to a potential measles exposure after an infected individual visited a car dealership and a Wawa convenience store earlier this month. The county’s Department of Health and Human Services is urging anyone who may have been exposed to monitor for symptoms and seek medical advice if concerned.
The exposure occurred at Nissan 422 of Limerick, located at 55 Autopark Boulevard in Royersford, on , from to , and again on , from to . The individual also visited a Wawa store at 579 North Lewis Road in Limerick on , from to , on , from to , and on , from to .
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Health officials emphasize that the virus can remain infectious on surfaces and in the air for up to two hours after the infected individual has left the area.
Individuals who were present at these locations during the specified dates and times may have been exposed. However, health officials clarify that those who were not present during these times were not exposed.
Understanding Measles and Protective Immunity
Measles typically presents with a range of symptoms, including fever, an unexplained rash, cough, congestion or a runny nose, and red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis). It’s crucial to monitor for these symptoms for up to 21 days following potential exposure.
Fortunately, many individuals are already protected against measles. Protection is generally conferred by either being born in 1957 or earlier, or by having received two doses of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine. Laboratory testing can also confirm immunity or the presence of the disease.
What to Do If You Suspect Exposure
If you are unsure of your vaccination status or believe you may have been exposed, health officials recommend contacting your healthcare provider or the Office of Public Health for guidance. This proves vitally important to call ahead before visiting any healthcare facility – including doctors’ offices, urgent care centers, or hospitals – to allow them to take appropriate precautions to protect other patients, and staff.
If symptoms develop, individuals are advised to stay home and immediately contact their healthcare provider. This helps prevent further spread of the virus.
Who is Most Vulnerable?
Certain populations are at higher risk of experiencing complications from measles. These include infants and children under five years of age, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems due to conditions such as leukemia or HIV infection. For these groups, measles can lead to more severe illness and potential long-term health consequences.
This recent exposure serves as a reminder of the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of infectious diseases. While measles was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, outbreaks can still occur, particularly in communities with low vaccination rates. Maintaining high vaccination coverage is essential to protect both individuals and the broader public health.
Health officials continue to monitor the situation and will provide updates as needed. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and take appropriate precautions to protect themselves and their families.