Health Department identifies additional exposure settings to confirmed case of measles in Durham Region

Whitby, Ontario – Durham Region Health Department has identified additional exposure settings related to the confirmed case of measles in a local unimmunized child with recent international travel.

The Health Department is investigating this exposure and has followed up directly with known contacts in Durham Region.

Members of the public may have been exposed at the following locations during the dates and times noted in the table below and are advised to monitor for signs and symptoms of measles.

Anyone who believes they may have been exposed to the measles virus at the above locations should 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 provider.
• If you develop symptoms, stay home and do not attend work or school. Call ahead before visiting a clinic or a primary care provider 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 with questions about airport exposures should contact their local public health unit or Health 811, the provincial health help line.

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 of age, 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

For more information about the measles virus, visit durham.ca/Measles.

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