Attention, Manitoba residents! A critical measles update has been issued, and it's time to stay vigilant.
Measles Update #72: Southern Manitoba on High Alert
Public health officials are sounding the alarm with four new measles exposure sites identified in southern Manitoba. If you were at any of these locations on the specified dates and times, it's crucial to monitor your health closely.
Exposure Sites and Dates:
- Boundary Trails Health Centre ultrasound department: Jan. 19, 1:40 p.m. to 5 p.m. (Monitor symptoms until Feb. 10)
- Boundary Trails Health Centre emergency department: Jan. 21, 6 a.m. to 10:05 a.m. (Monitor symptoms until Feb. 12)
- Once Upon a Child Winnipeg East: Jan. 23, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. (Monitor symptoms until Feb. 14)
- Sharptooth Adventures: Jan. 23, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. (Monitor symptoms until Feb. 14)
But here's where it gets controversial... Public health is urging everyone who was at these locations to check their immunization records and ensure they are protected against measles.
Immunization Recommendations:
For those exposed and born in 1970 or later, with no prior measles vaccine or infection:
- Measles vaccine is strongly advised.
- Reduce contact with others, especially those with weakened immune systems or who are unimmunized, from day 5 to day 21 post-exposure.
- Watch for measles symptoms until the corresponding date.
However, certain individuals should not receive the measles vaccine, including infants under 6 months, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems. These individuals should seek advice from their healthcare provider for potential preventative treatment.
Symptoms and Complications:
Measles symptoms typically appear 7 to 21 days after exposure. Initial signs include fever, runny nose, drowsiness, irritability, and red eyes. Small white spots may also develop in the mouth or throat. A red blotchy rash then appears on the face and spreads downward. Measles can lead to severe complications like ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, and encephalitis (brain inflammation).
If symptoms develop, isolate at home and contact your healthcare provider, informing them of potential measles exposure. Household members who are unimmunized should also limit contact with others until the symptomatic person receives medical advice.
Prevention and Immunization:
Measles is highly contagious, spreading through airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing. An infected person can transmit the virus from 4 days before the rash appears until 4 days after. Infants and young children are at higher risk of severe complications, making immunization crucial.
Immunization is the key to protection. Contact local public health offices, physicians, or nurse practitioners to ensure everyone is up to date with their measles vaccine (MMR or MMRV).
In Manitoba, a two-dose measles vaccine program is routinely offered to children aged 1 and again at 4 to 6 years. In cases of measles exposure, a second dose may be given earlier. There's also an outbreak eligibility for children aged 6 months to under 12 months. For detailed eligibility criteria, visit www.gov.mb.ca/health/publichealth/cdc/vaccineeligibility.html#MMR.
Public health officials will provide ongoing updates as the situation evolves. The number of measles cases in Manitoba will be updated weekly on the measles webpage each Friday.
Stay informed, stay safe, and don't hesitate to share your thoughts and concerns in the comments. Your engagement is vital to raising awareness and keeping our community healthy!
