Southeast back on measles exposure list

The Southeast is back on the measle exposure list, after a flurry of updates issued in the last two weeks from public health officials.

An update issued Feb. 9 cautioned people who were at Penfor Construction in Blumenort on Jan. 31 from 10 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. to monitor symptoms until Feb. 22.

Other locations on that list include the Oak Bluff Recreation Club, Greenvalley Equipment in the RM of Stanley, Caisse Financial Group in Notre Dame, and Brandon Regional Health Centre.

Anyone who was in those locations should check their immunization records and ensure they are up to date on the measles vaccine (MMR or MMRV).

Those who may have been exposed and were born in 1970 or later are advised to get vaccinated, reduce exposure to others, and watch for symptoms until the date that corresponds with their exposure.

Symptoms generally 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 on the inside of the mouth or throat. Several days after 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 (lung infection) and encephalitis (brain inflammation).