Health Unit explains the measles situation

Vast majority safe after potential exposures

We told you yesterday about more places in the region where people may have been exposed to measles as the provincial case tally grows. 

This one covered five more places from April 2nd through the 7th. 

We're on the cusp of a big travel weekend which means we need to take extra care to ensure we keep ourselves and others safe. 

Dr. Linna Li, Deputy Medical Officer of Health with the South-East Health Unit says there's an easy first step to make that a reality. 

Dr. Li also says that for the vast majority a measles infection won't be too serious or have long-term consequeneces, but in rare cases:
 

Those at highest risk are: infants, pregnant women, and those who are immunocompromised. Symptoms are very similar to a cold, and include the tell-tale rash that doesn't appear until a couple of days after the symptoms first appear. 

She says the health unit issues the point of contact warnings because the virus is persistent and very hard to contain. 

The Doctor also passed along some information that will certainly ease the minds of people who were at those point of contact locations. 

If symptoms do present themselves it's important to isolate at home. Measles testing may also be needed so a visit to your primary care provider will been needed. But Jennifer Adams, Manager of Clinical Services says how you do that is very important. 

The Locations listed in the latest warning include Nicholson Catholic College in Belleville (April 2-4), VIA Rail Train 66 (Belleville to Kingston, April 4), a Tim Hortons in Kingston (April 5), and a Kingston Family Health Team office (April 7).

We are monitoring the local measles situation very closely, and we will have more as it develops. 

Story by Bob Perreault