Measles case confirmed in Chatham

Chatham-Kent Public Health (CKPH) has confirmed a student at Chatham Christian School has measles.

Public health said it has notified affected families have been notified and it is working with school administration to offer guidance.

In addition to the case at the school, potential exposure took place at:

• Thamesview Family Health Team on Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
• Thamesview Family Health Team on Thursday from 2:15 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.
• Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Emergency Department on Feb. 15 from 2:35 p.m. to 5:31 p.m.

The health unit identified six additional points of exposure later Friday:

• YMCA Chatham (101 Courthouse Ln., Chatham) February 25th, from 1:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
• Chatham Christian School Celebration of Learning Event (475 Keil Drive S., Chatham) February 27th from 6:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
• Chatham Christian School Discovery Day -Kindergarten Registration – (475 Keil Drive S., Chatham) February 28th from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• No Frills Chatham (835 Queen St., Chatham) March 5th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
• Tilbury Walk-In Clinic (15 Mill St. E., Tilbury) March 5th from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
• Tilbury Walk-In Clinic (15 Mill St. E., Tilbury)

If you are not up to date with your vaccines and were at any of those locations, you are urged to contact CK Public Health at 519-352-7270 extension 5902.

If you are experiencing symptoms of measles and need to go see a doctor, emergency department, or walk-in clinic, it’s advised that you call first and have had exposure and are experiencing measles symptoms.

Symptoms include a fever, runny nose, cough, drowsiness, irritability, and red eyes. A red rash will appear on the face three to seven days after the beginning of symptoms. It could progress further down the body.

“It is important to note that the vast majority of individuals are vaccinated against measles, providing them with protection against the disease,” said CKPH.

“As such, the risk of contracting measles remains small to the broader community. However, as a precautionary measure, we urge all individuals to ensure they are up-to-date on their vaccinations.”