Current Measles Activity

Please be aware that laboratory-confirmed measles cases have been reported in southwestern Ontario, notably in the London, Hamilton and Halton regions.

The attached Measles Fact Sheet provides information on measles including; signs and symptoms, how measles are spread and what to do if you suspect measles in yourself or your family members.

Please note that people at most risk are those that are not immune (not vaccinated or have not had the disease) or those that are vulnerable. Infants under one year of age, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems are vulnerable and can get very ill with measles.

We are urging all community members to check your immunization records to make sure that you and your children have an up-to-date immunization history that includes 2 doses of measles, mumps, rubella vaccine (MMR) for those 4 years of age and older.

It is advised that anyone 4 year of age or older who has not received 2 doses of MMR contact your local health clinic to schedule an appointment to get caught up on your immunizations as soon as possible.

If you have further questions, please contact:

Community Health @ 613-575-2341 ext. 3220

MEASLES FACT SHEET

What are the signs and symptoms of measles? Symptoms of measles include:

•Fever, cough and runny nose

•Red, irritated eyes and light sensitivity

•Small white, grey or blue spots in the mouth

•Red, blotchy rash, which is the last symptom to appear. The rash appears on the face and then spreads down over the body, and will begin to fade after about a week.

Symptoms can start anywhere from 7 to 21 days after a person has been exposed to the virus.

Symptoms usually develop around 10 days after exposure and the rash usually develops 14 days after exposure.

How is it spread?

Measles is an airborne virus that spreads very easily. It is transmitted in tiny droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes or breathes. It can survive in the air for up to two hours. Measles is contagious four days before the rash appears until four days after the onset of the rash.

What do you do if you are exposed to measles?

If you have been exposed and are not immune (through vaccination or previous infection), a vaccine can prevent measles from developing if given within 72 hours of exposure. Another medication may help up to 6 days after exposure, your family doctor needs to determine this.

If you develop symptoms:

Stay home and don’t allow others to visit until the ill person has completely recovered.

Contact your healthcare provider by phone. Please note: If you need to visit a healthcare provider, call first and tell them you have measles symptoms. Visit the healthcare provider at the end of the day unless this is not practical or possible for medical reasons. On arrival, immediately ask for a mask when you enter the office/clinic, and to be placed in a private room. If this is not possible, wait in your car until you are seen by the healthcare provider.

If your healthcare provider suspects measles, they should notify the Public Health Unit in their area,

For more information contact:

Community Health @ 613-575-2341 ext. 3220