Halton’s public health authority has confirmed that there has been a case of measles in the region.
It says the case is travel-related and warning that there may have been potential exposures within the community, specifically at two healthcare centres.
“Public Health is reaching out to known contacts who may have been exposed to the measles virus at the following locations during the dates and times listed below,” the region said Thursday afternoon, sharing the following dates and locations:
- Milton Trails Medical Clinic on Tuesday, April 2, between 12:45 p.m. and 4 p.m.
- Milton District Hospital Emergency Department on Thursday, April 4, between 1:33 p.m. and 7:06 p.m.
- Milton Trails Medical Clinic, on Friday, April 5, between 2 p.m. and 4:40 p.m.
“Measles is a serious disease that can be prevented with a safe and effective vaccine. I encourage everyone to ensure their immunizations, including for measles, are up to date, particularly children who may have missed their routine shots during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Dr. Deepika Lobo, the region’s top doctor.
Measles can show up as a red blotchy rash and can cause a fever, cough, runny nose and white spots inside the mouth. Symptoms can last up to 21 days.
An infection in healthy adults may not be problematic, but those with weakened immune systems or infants under the age of one can become very sick.
Anyone who thinks they are infected should contact a healthcare professional by phone prior to arriving in any walk-in clinic or emergency room to mitigate the risk of further exposure to the public.
Confirmed case of measles in #MiltonON with potential exposures in health care settings from April 2 to 5, 2024 in #HaltonON. Learn more: https://t.co/VTi4Ri0SvS pic.twitter.com/mw1f4XwYzf
— Halton Region (@RegionofHalton) April 10, 2024
READ MORE: 8 confirmed cases of measles in Ontario, at least 1 in Hamilton