In the latest update, public health officials in Manitoba are alerting residents about a new measles exposure site in Morden, adding to the ongoing concerns about the highly contagious disease. This update, Measles Update #67, emphasizes the importance of vigilance and proactive measures to prevent the spread of measles. Here's a detailed breakdown of the key points and actions individuals should take.
New Exposure Site in Morden
- Location: Garden Valley Wellness Centre Inc., 239C Stephen St., Morden.
- Date and Time: January 13, 2023, from 2:40 p.m. to 4:50 p.m.
- Symptom Monitoring: Anyone present during this period is advised to monitor for symptoms until February 4, 2023.
Immunization and Exposure Guidelines
- Check Immunization Status: Public health officials recommend that anyone who was at the wellness center during the specified time to review their immunization records and ensure they are up to date with the measles vaccine (MMR or MMRV).
- Vaccine Recommendation: For those who were exposed and born in 1970 or later, have never received the measles vaccine, and have never had a measles infection, a measles vaccine is recommended. This includes reducing exposure to others, especially those with weakened immune systems or who are unimmunized, from the fifth day after exposure to the 21st day after the latest exposure.
- Symptom Watch: Monitor for symptoms of measles, which typically appear seven to 21 days after exposure. Initial symptoms may include fever, runny nose, drowsiness, irritability, and red eyes. Small white spots may also develop inside the mouth or throat.
- Rash Appearance: Several days after the initial symptoms, a red blotchy rash appears on the face and progresses down the body.
- Complications and Risks: Measles can lead to complications such as ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, and encephalitis. It is particularly severe in infants and young children and can be life-threatening.
What to Do If You May Have Been Exposed
- Isolate at Home: If symptoms develop, individuals who may have been exposed are advised to isolate at home and contact their healthcare provider. Inform them of the potential exposure to measles.
- Limit Exposure: Anyone else in the household who is unimmunized should limit exposure to others until the symptomatic person has received advice from their healthcare provider. It is best to call ahead so healthcare staff can take steps to reduce the exposure of other people to the virus.
Measles Transmission and Prevention
- Airborne Spread: Measles is a highly infectious communicable disease spread through droplets in the air formed when coughing or sneezing. An infected person can spread the virus from four days before the rash appears until four days after.
- Immunization as the Best Defense: Immunization is the only means of protecting people from contracting measles. Contact an immunization provider such as a local public health office, physician, or nurse practitioner to ensure everyone is up to date.
Manitoba's Vaccination Program
- Two-Dose Program: In Manitoba, a two-dose measles vaccine program for measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella (MMR or MMRV) is routinely provided for children who are at least one year of age and again when aged four to six. In the case of a measles exposure, a second dose may be given earlier than four to six years of age.
- Outbreak Eligibility: There is also an outbreak eligibility for some children aged six months to under 12 months. The complete eligibility criteria can be viewed at [www.gov.mb.ca/health/publichealth/cdc/vaccineeligibility.html#MMR].
Stay Informed and Take Action
- Monitor Updates: Public health officials will continue to monitor the situation and provide updated information as necessary. The number of measles cases in Manitoba will be updated weekly on the measles webpage each Friday.
- Contact Health Links-Info Santé: For further information, individuals can contact Health Links-Info Santé at 204-788-8200 in Winnipeg or 1-888-315-9257 toll-free in Manitoba.
But here's where it gets controversial... Is the current vaccination program enough to prevent measles outbreaks, or are there other measures that should be considered? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. We want to hear from you!
