Health Department investigating additional case of measles in Durham Region

Whitby, Ontario – Durham Region Health Department has received confirmation of an additional case of measles related to a previous exposure site. This highlights the importance of providing measles exposure information to the public. This brings the total to four confirmed cases in Durham Region.

The Health Department is following up with identifiable contacts who may have been exposed to the measles virus. The members of the public may have been exposed at the following locations. These individuals are advised to monitor for signs and symptoms of measles.

Public notifications regarding previous exposures sites were issued on March 8 and March 6. Please visit durham.ca/Measles for a list of all measles exposure sites in Durham.

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 (greater than or equal to 38.3 degrees Celsius)
• 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 provincial 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.