Hamilton Public Health is warning local residents about the possibility of measles exposure after four members of the same household have been confirmed to have cases of the virus.
Public health says the three children and one adult were in contact with another person who was confirmed to have measles on April 17. In a release issued Friday, the department said it continues to try to contact other people who may have been exposed.
The public may have also been exposed the measles, which is highly contagious, at the following places:
- 45 Barlake Ave, Hamilton (an apartment building near Barton Street and Centennial Parkway), from April 2 to May 2;
- The Food Basics grocery store at 2500 Barton St. E., on April 21, from 4 to 6:15 p.m.; and
- The Corner Cafe in McMaster Children’s Hospital (just inside the Main Street entrance) on Tuesday from 9 to 10:15 a.m.
In the release, public health put particular emphasis on the exposure in the children’s hospital cafe. It says pregnant people, children under a year old and people with weakened immune systems are at increased risk of complications from the virus, which is a respiratory illness that causes a red, blotchy rash.
“If you were present at the McMaster Children’s Hospital Corner Café at the above time, and you were with an infant under twelve months of age, are pregnant or are immunocompromised, please call 365-323-4993 immediately as you may be eligible for preventive treatment,” states the release.
The phone line will be answered from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from Friday to Sunday.
Experts say public health officials responded quickly and thoroughly. But they say the rise in cases at the start of 2024 should serve as a wake-up call.
Public health says anyone exposed should monitor for symptoms for 21 days, whether or not they are vaccinated.
People with symptoms of measles, which include high fever (38.8 C or higher), the red rash, cough, runny nose and red watery eyes, should stay home and avoid all public spaces, and contact their doctor or Hamilton Public Health.
“Measles is a serious preventable threat that can impact lives at any age,” said Dr. Brendan Lew, Associate Medical Officer of Health.
“We can combat the spread of measles through education, vaccination and vigilant public health measures. It is strongly recommended you are up to date with appropriate measles vaccination especially before travelling.”
There are early signals that measles — one of the world’s most contagious but preventable diseases — may be spreading in parts of Canada. Andrew Chang breaks down the way the virus attacks the body and what makes it so contagious.