Philadelphia health officials have issued a warning about a possible measles exposure at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), proving that some things - like highly preventable diseases - simply refuse to stay in the past where they belong.

The potential exposure occurred on Friday, Sept. 11, at 3401 Civic Center Boulevard, according to an announcement made Thursday night. Because nothing says "modern medicine" like a Friday night trip to the hospital potentially exposing you to a disease the U.S. declared eliminated in 2000.

In a joint statement, CHOP, the Pennsylvania Department of Health, and the Philadelphia Department of Public Health (PDPH) said they are working closely to ensure infants in the NICU receive a preventative antibody product to prevent or lessen severe disease and to take steps to prevent the further spread of measles. PDPH is also encouraging people who were exposed to check their vaccination status and watch for symptoms.

This latest incident follows the state reporting two recent measles-related deaths, bringing the total this year to four. That's four too many for a disease that has had a safe and effective vaccine since 1963.

"We encourage people to get vaccinated not only to protect themselves, but to protect those who cannot get vaccinated," said Health Commissioner Dr. Palak Raval-Nelson. "This is why it is imperative that everyone who is eligible gets up to date on the vaccines they need so we can protect our most vulnerable."

Raval-Nelson added that officials "do not believe that these exposures constitute a broad risk to Philadelphians, since the vast majority of us are fully protected due to our being vaccinated," but urged those without protection to get their vaccinations "as soon as possible." So, you know, the usual: the responsible majority is fine, but the unvaccinated minority is playing a game of viral roulette with everyone else's health.

"Remember, this is not just about protecting yourself, it's about protecting our most vulnerable Philadelphians," she said, in a statement that could be applied to virtually every public health measure ever devised.

Measles is highly contagious - the kind of contagious that makes you wonder why anyone would skip the vaccine. Early symptoms can include fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes, followed by a rash. Officials say people who develop symptoms should call their healthcare provider before going in person, so precautions can be taken to prevent potentially spreading measles to others. In other words: don't just show up and start coughing in the waiting room.

For more information about measles, vaccination, and possible measles exposure in the Philadelphia area and beyond, residents can visit the Philadelphia Department of Public Health website. Because the internet is still free, unlike hospital visits.