There have been four confirmed cases of measles in Hamilton that may have come into contact with the public.
The city said that its public health service is working to contact anyone who may have come into contact with the virus and has provided a list of locations and times of concern.
The first listed instance of public exposure took place over 12 days at an apartment building in Hamilton.
The city says there’s a risk to anyone who was at 45 Barlake Ave. between April 21 and May 2.
The second listed instance of public exposure took place on April 21 at Food Basics on Barton Street and Mary Street.
The exposure took place between 4 p.m. to 6:15 p.m.
The third instance of public exposure occurred at the McMaster Children’s Hospital Corner Café. The city says there is a risk to anyone who was there on April 30, between 9 a.m. to 10:15 a.m.
“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,” the city said in a statement Friday.
If you attended any of the locations at the listed times, the city is urging you to check your immunization records to confirm you’re up-to-date on any measles vaccinations.
Measles has an incubation period of seven to 21 days after initial contact. Symptoms include:
- cough;
- fever;
- runny nose;
- red eyes;
- sleepiness;
- irritability;
- small, white spots on the inside of the mouth (known as Koplik Spots), and;
- a red blotchy rash that first starts on the face and spreads across the body (lasting four to seven days).
Anyone who thinks they may have measles is urged to call ahead before visiting a doctor’s office, walk-in clinic, or emergency department.
“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.’
READ MORE: Health officials confirm 2 cases of measles in Halton