The Delaware Division of Public Health Issues Update About Potential Measles Exposure

DOVER, Del. (Jan. 11, 2024) – The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) is reporting a potential measles exposure at the Nemours Children’s Hospital in Wilmington on December 29, 2023. An extensive contact tracing investigation identified between 20-30 people exposed to the individual who was not symptomatic but was infectious at the time of their visit to the facility.  DPH communicated with the identified potential exposures confirming vaccination status, providing educational resources and issuing quarantine and exclusion orders when necessary.  After thorough review and analysis following the contact tracing investigation, DPH is issuing a public notification to any persons who visited the facility on December 29, 2023, from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM that there is the potential for measles exposure.

Any individual who was exposed to measles and displaying symptoms should contact the Office of Infectious Disease Epidemiology during regular business hours (302-744-4990) or the state’s 24-hour reporting line at 1-888-295-5156 outside of normal business hours to coordinate testing, receive guidance, and limit any further exposures.  Those who are ill should seek immediate health care by contacting their primary care provider.  If symptoms are severe, they should seek immediate care at the nearest emergency department.  Prior to going to any health care facility, the individual should notify providers and medical transport that they or their child were exposed to measles.

DPH has issued a notice to health care providers about measles symptoms and what to do if they see a potential case and is strongly recommending that people who have not received both doses of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine do so. If a Delaware resident is unsure of their vaccination status, they can visit the DelVAX Public Portal and view their personal profile.  Individuals may also contact their primary health care provider for additional details or if they are unable to obtain their records on DelVAX.  In order to ensure all proper protocols are in place prior to their arrival, any individual displaying symptoms of measles infection should contact the health care facility they plan to visit in advance. Providers who identify any potential cases of measles should contact the Office of Infectious Disease Epidemiology via the contact information provided above and in Delaware Health Advisory #508.

The MMR vaccine is proven safe and effective at preventing measles having been administered for over five decades.  Testing shows the vaccine to be 97% effective at preventing measles for those who have received two doses of the MMR vaccine and are not severely immunocompromised. Children should get their first dose of vaccine between 12 and 15 months of age and their second dose between 4 and 6 years of age. If you have not received both doses by age 6, you should get your first or second dose as soon as possible. Infants 6-11 months who are traveling internationally should get an early dose of MMR.  Vaccinations are available to both adults and children at many pharmacies, federally qualified health centers (FQHCs), and providers throughout Delaware and also at public health clinics for the uninsured or underinsured. Individuals should contact their preferred facility in advance to confirm supply and availability.

Measles is a highly contagious, acute viral illness that begins with early symptoms of fever, cough, coryza (runny nose) and conjunctivitis (pink eye), lasting two to four days prior to rash onset. The rash typically occurs three to five days after symptoms begin and usually appears on the face and spreads down the body. Measles can cause severe health complications, including pneumonia, brain inflammation and death. The virus is transmitted by direct contact with infectious droplets or by airborne spread when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes. The measles virus can remain infectious in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area. Infected people are contagious from four days before the rash starts through four days after rash development. The incubation period for measles from exposure to fever is usually about 10 days (range, 7-12 days), and from exposure to rash onset is usually about 14 days (range, 7-21 days).

For more information on measles, visit ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ on the DPH website: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dph/files/measlesfaq.pdf.


The Delaware Division of Public Health Issues Notification About Potential Measles Exposure

DOVER, Del. (Jan. 8, 2024) – The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) is reporting a potential measles exposure in a Delaware health care facility. On January 5, 2024, the Philadelphia Department of Public Health identified a confirmed case of measles in an unvaccinated individual. While infectious, the individual sought care at a healthcare facility in Delaware on December 29, 2023.

In response to this exposure, DPH is acting to quickly identify and prevent the spread of disease. Officials are working to identify anyone who may have been exposed, checking their vaccination status, warning them about potential exposure and issuing quarantine and exclusion orders where necessary. DPH is also working to educate health care providers about measles symptoms and what to do if they see a potential case. DPH is strongly recommending that people who have not received both doses of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine do so.  If a Delaware resident is unsure of their vaccination status, they can visit the Delvax Public Portal and view their personal profile.  Individuals may also contact their primary health care provider for additional details or if they are unable to obtain their records on Delvax.

The MMR vaccine is proven safe and effective at preventing measles having been administered for over five decades.  Testing shows the vaccine to be 97% effective at preventing measles for those who have received two doses of the MMR vaccine and are not severely immunocompromised. Children should get their first dose of vaccine between 12 and 15 months of age and their second dose between 4 and 6 years of age. If you have not received both doses by age 6, you should get your first or second dose as soon as possible. Infants 6-11 months who are traveling internationally should get an early dose of MMR.  Vaccinations are available to both adults and children at many pharmacies, federally qualified health centers (FQHCs), and providers throughout Delaware and also at public health clinics for the uninsured or underinsured.  Individuals should contact their preferred facility in advance to confirm supply and availability.

Measles is a highly contagious, acute viral illness that begins with early symptoms of fever, cough, coryza (runny nose) and conjunctivitis (pink eye), lasting two to four days prior to rash onset. The rash typically occurs three to five days after symptoms begin and usually appears on the face and spreads down the body. Measles can cause severe health complications, including pneumonia, brain inflammation and death. The virus is transmitted by direct contact with infectious droplets or by airborne spread when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes. Measles virus can remain infectious in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area. Infected people are contagious from four days before the rash starts through four days after rash development. The incubation period for measles from exposure to fever is usually about 10 days (range, 7-12 days), and from exposure to rash onset is usually about 14 days (range, 7-21 days).

For more information on measles, visit ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ on the DPH website: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dph/files/measlesfaq.pdf.


DPH Reports Zero Cases of High Blood Lead Levels in Children Consuming Recalled Cinnamon Applesauce Pouches

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has received reports from multiple states that suggest children may have higher blood lead levels (BLLs) after consuming recalled cinnamon-containing applesauce products. The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) has received no reports of children with high BLLs in response to the recall of cinnamon-containing applesauce products.

Signs and symptoms may include headaches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, changes in activity level and anemia. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has received reports of 67 confirmed cases, 122 probable cases and 16 suspected cases from 33 different states as of December 15. The CDC has advised clinicians and health departments to consider the possibility of illness due to lead exposure and report cases to their local health authorities.

Per the FDA, the recalled WanaBana, Schnucks, or Weis-brand apple cinnamon pouches should not be eaten, sold, or served. Due to the long shelf life of these products, consumers should check their homes and dispose of them. To prevent others from salvaging recalled products from the garbage, consumers and retailers should carefully open the pouch and empty the contents into a trash can before discarding the packaging. After discarding the product, clean up any spills and wash your hands.

DPH remains vigilant as it monitors statewide conditions. Cases can be reported to the DPH Office of Lead Poisoning Prevention by emailing HSPContact@Delaware.gov.

For more information about specific recalled products, visit https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/investigation-elevated-lead-levels-cinnamon-applesauce-pouches-november-2023.


Nominations Now Open for 2024 Governor’s Volunteer Service Awards

NEW CASTLE – The Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS), Division of State Service Centers (DSSC) and State Office of Volunteerism (SOV) is excited to announce that nominations for the prestigious Governor’s Youth Volunteer Service Awards and the Governor’s Outstanding Volunteer Service Awards (Adult Awards) are open.

Nominations for both awards will be accepted by the State Office of Volunteerism until Monday, Jan. 15. Nomination forms, along with detailed award criteria, are available at Volunteer Delaware.

Nominees will have shown an unwavering commitment to service and will have made a positive impact on their community or the state through their efforts in the calendar year 2023.

For the first time in recent years, DHSS, DSSC and SOV has introduced the Corporate Category, recognizing exemplary corporate volunteer efforts that have significantly contributed to community enhancement.

“Now more than ever, there’s an expectation for corporations to actively engage in community betterment and address social issues,” said Paul Calistro, Chair of the Governor’s Commission on Community and Volunteer Service. “This new award category is a fantastic opportunity for the State of Delaware to shine a light on how companies are not only involving their employees and consumers but also strategically using their resources to make a significant impact on the causes they are passionate about.”

“Delaware is known for its sense of community and volunteer spirit,” said Governor John Carney. “These awards celebrate those champions who are making a difference across our state, and now, they also will recognize corporations committed to integrating corporate citizenship, social impact initiatives, civic engagement, and community involvement as part of their business operations.”

“We are looking for nominees who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to serving others and have positively impacted their community or the State of Delaware through their efforts in 2023,” said DHSS Cabinet Secretary Josette Manning. “Whether you know a remarkable young person (17 and under), an inspiring adult, or a business that’s making a difference, we invite you to nominate them for these prestigious awards.”

The honorees will be celebrated in a distinguished ceremony on April 4, 2024.

For detailed information about the awards, volunteer opportunities, and the nomination process, please visit volunteer.delaware.gov or reach out to Diane Frebert, Volunteer Services Administrator, at diane.frebert@delaware.gov.

Governor’s Youth Volunteer Service Award, ages 17 and under, Nomination Link
Governor’s Outstanding (Adult, Corporate, Group) Volunteer Service Award, ages 18 and up, Nomination Link

The Governor’s Outstanding Volunteer Service Awards and the Governor’s Youth Volunteer Service Awards are proudly sponsored by the Office of the Governor, the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services, Division of State Service Centers, State Office of Volunteerism, and the Governor’s Commission on Community and Volunteer Service.


DPH Reminds Residents to “Spread Joy Not Germs” This Holiday Season

DOVER, Del. (Dec. 11, 2023) – The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) takes the safety and well-being of all Delawareans seriously. With COVID-19, flu and RSV all prevalent this time of year, DPH is actively educating residents about how to mitigate exposure and transmission of these respiratory viruses.

Keeping in the spirit of the holiday season, DPH has taken a lighthearted approach and launched a fun, new, holiday-themed campaign reminding all Delawareans of four simple guidelines that can help them stay safe from respiratory viruses this winter:

  • Get vaccinated for COVID-19, flu and RSV, if eligible.
  • Stay home if you are sick.
  • If you have symptoms or were exposed to someone with a respiratory illness, get tested and seek treatment if you test positive.
  • If cases rise or you are immunocompromised, consider wearing a mask.

“On behalf of the Division of Public Health, I would like to wish everyone a safe, healthy, and enjoyable holiday season,” Steven Blessing, Director of the Delaware Division of Public Health said. “While these respiratory illnesses are no joke, we hope the images and messages in our new holiday campaign will spark some smiles while reminding us of all to do everything we can to keep ourselves and our loved ones protected.”

DPH also compiled a list of tips and resources to further ensure viruses take a backseat to gatherings and celebrations. Here are eight ways we can all spread joy instead of germs this holiday season:

  1. Get vaccinated. It’s worth repeating. Cases of COVID-19flu and RSV are currently increasing. Vaccines are available to help lessen symptoms and prevent hospitalization.
  2. Wash your hands. This is so simple, but so effective. Washing hands for at least 20 seconds using soap and water prevents the spread of germs to protect the ones you love.
  3. Cover that cough. Use the inside of your elbow or a tissue to cover up that cough or sneeze. Try to avoid coughing into your hands, and if you do, wash them immediately using hand sanitizer or soap and water.
  4. Protect vulnerable loved ones. No one wants to get sick with a respiratory virus, but the impact of these illnesses can be particularly severe on the elderly and those with underlying conditions. Know who is at risk and take steps to mitigate any germs spreading.
  5. Traveling? Prepare early. Be sure you and your travel companions get vaccinated at least two weeks before your trip. This will allow the full effects of the vaccine to develop in your body for maximum protection.
  6. During that trip, mask up when appropriate. If you’ll be travelling by plane, train, or bus consider masking up during the ride. Those tight quarters, where ventilation might be poor and people around you may be coughing or sneezing, create ideal conditions for the transmission of viral illnesses.
  7. Did you get sick? Stay home. This is another tip worth repeating. No one wants to miss a holiday party or family dinner. For your own well-being and the safety of others though, stay home if you test positive for a respiratory illness, have a fever, or are presenting any of the common symptoms like coughing, sore throat, fever, or runny nose.
  8. Stay updated. DPH offers up to date information about COVID-19flu and RSV. When in doubt, check the state’s website for answers to your questions.

Individuals with general questions about COVID-19 should call Delaware 2-1-1, individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing can text their ZIP code to 898-211, or email delaware211@uwde.org.

Hours of operation are Monday – Friday 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Medically related questions regarding testing, symptoms, and health-related guidance can be submitted by email at DPHCall@delaware.gov.

DPH will continue to update the public as more information becomes available. For the latest on Delaware’s response, go to de.gov/coronavirus.