Confirmed case of measles in Peel Region, public exposure possible in Brampton

The measles virus is seen through an electron micrograph. (C. S. Goldsmith; William Bellini, Ph.D.)

Peel Region says it is investigating a confirmed case of measles.

Peel Public Health (PPH) says the case was confirmed on Feb. 18 and are warning the public of possible exposure sites in Brampton.

PPH says people could have been exposed to the measles virus at the Cornerstone Medical Centre Walk-In Urgent Care and its adjoining pharmacy at 8890 Chinguacousy Road, near Queen Street West, between 1:52 p.m. and 5:13 p.m. on Sun. Feb. 16.

Anyone who may have been exposed should watch for measles symptoms for up to 21 days after exposure, according to PPH.

Symptoms include a high fever, a red and blotchy rash lasting four to seven days, cough, runny nose, and red and watery eyes or sensitivity to light.

PPH advises anyone who develops symptoms to stay home and to not attend work, school, childcare, or any other public spaces.

They’re also cautioning the public to check their immunization records to confirm they and their family members are up to date with their measles vaccinations, especially if they’re planning any international travel for the March Break.

Public Health Ontario (PHO) says a total of 57 confirmed and six probable cases of measles have been reported in the province so far this year as of Feb. 12.

Outbreak cases have occurred in four public health units, according to PHO, including Southwestern Public Health, Grey Bruce Health Unit, Grand Erie Public Health, and Chatham-Kent Public Health.