Durham Region Health Department advising of potential exposure to confirmed measles case
Whitby, Ontario – Durham Region Health Department is notifying the public of two measles exposure locations related to a confirmed measles case. The case is from outside of Durham Region but visited local venues while contagious.
Location | Address | Date | Time | Watch for symptoms until (21 days after exposure) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Ajax Rotary Ribfest (Ajax Downs Casino) | 50 Alexander’s Crossing, Ajax | May 24, 2025 | 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. |
June 14, 2025 |
Ajax Rotary Ribfest (Ajax Downs Casino) | 50 Alexander’s Crossing, Ajax | May 25, 2025 | 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. | June 15, 2025 |
Cineplex Odeon Cinemas – Lilo and Stitch (11:30 a.m. showing), concession area and washrooms | 248 Kingston Road East, Ajax | May 24, 2025 | 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. | June 14, 2025 |
There have been no cases of measles reported in Durham Region so far for 2025.
The Health Department advises anyone who believes they may have been exposed to the measles virus at the above locations to do the following:
- Confirm you and your family members have two doses of measles vaccine (MMR or MMRV); those born before 1970 would likely have had measles illness as a child and are protected. Individuals who are unsure of their vaccination status should check with their health care professional.
- If you develop symptoms, stay home and do not attend work or school. Call ahead before visiting a clinic or hospital and let them know you may have measles to allow them to prepare and prevent the spread of the virus. Wear a well-fitting mask when getting a medical assessment.
- Individuals who do not have access to a health care professional may also call Durham Health Connection Line at 905-668-2020 or 1-800-841-2729.
Measles is a highly contagious disease that spreads easily to those who are not immunized or have not previously had measles. Infants under one-year old, unimmunized pregnant individuals, and people with weakened immune systems are at increased risk of complications from measles. The measles virus can stay in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours. Measles symptoms typically begin seven to 21 days after infection and may include:
- High fever (may spike to more than 38.3°C/104°F)
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis, i.e. pink eye), sensitivity to light
- Red rash lasting four to seven days
To see a list of measles exposure sites, visit Public Health Ontario’s Measles Exposures in Ontario website. For more information about the measles virus, visit durham.ca/Measles.
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For more information, please contact the Health Department.
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