Conestoga Mall listed as potential measles exposure site

Conestoga Mall in Waterloo is pictured on Tuesday, Nov. 24, 2015.

A mall in Waterloo has been listed as a potential measles exposure site.

Conestoga Mall has been added to Waterloo Region’s ongoing list of potential public exposure locations.

According to the region’s website, someone infected with the illness was at the mall on April 22 between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.

Anyone who was at the mall during those hours is encouraged to monitor for symptoms until at least May 13.

Measles is considered to be highly contagious, and even brief exposure can be enough to contract the illness. The disease can be spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes or breathes.

Measles symptoms typically begin seven to 21 days after exposure and may include a fever, runny nose, cough, red watery eyes, small white spots on the inside of the mouth and throat and a red blotchy rash.

Other complications can include diarrhea, ear infections and pneumonia. In severe cases, measles can lead to brain inflammation and death.

Anyone who suspects they may have measles is encouraged to stay home and avoid contact with others. If seeking medical treatment, call your health provider ahead of time so they can take steps to prevent the virus from spreading to others.