Bethesda named as measles exposure site

Bethesda Regional Health Centre and the De Salaberry District Health Centre have been named by the province as measles exposure sites.

A Tuesday news release stated that the emergency waiting room at the Steinbach facility saw measles exposure on Dec. 27 from 8:30 p.m. to 11:59 p.m. and again on Dec. 28 from 12 a.m. to 2 a.m.

Those exposed should monitor symptoms until Jan. 18 and Jan. 19 respectively.

The De Salaberry District Health Centre in St-Pierre-Jolys saw exposure on Dec. 31 from 1:15 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Those present are asked to monitor symptoms until Jan. 22.

Public health is also asking anyone who was at these locations during the specified time to check their immunization records and ensure they are up to date with the measles vaccine (MMR or MMRV).

For those born in 1970 or later who were present, Manitoba Health recommends they get measles vaccinations, reduce exposure to others, especially anyone with a weakened immune system or are unimmunized from the fifth day after exposure to the 21st day, and watch for symptoms.

Some people should not get the measles vaccine including infants less than six months of age, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems. These individuals should contact their health-care provider or public health as they may be eligible for preventative treatment within six days of exposure.

All information on measles, exposures and immunization is available online at www.gov.mb.ca/health by following the links, and at Health Links at 204-788-8200 or 1-888-315-9527.

According to Manitoba Health, symptoms of measles generally appear seven to 21 days after exposure.

Initial symptoms include fever, runny nose, drowsiness, irritability and red eyes. Small white spots may also appear on the inside of the mouth or throat. Several days after the initial symptoms a red blotchy rash appears on the face and progresses down the body.

Measles can lead to complications including ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia and encephalitis.

Measles is a highly infectious communicable disease that is 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 to four days after.

It tends to be more severe in infants and young children and can be life threatening.