Manitoba reports new measles exposure site

Manitoba health officials are reporting RRC Polytech as the newest measles exposure site.

On Monday, the province announced potential exposures at the Notre Dame campus on May 6 and 7 from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Public health asks those who were at this location during these exposures to check their immunization records and ensure they’ve received the measles vaccine.

Anyone exposed, born in 1970 or later and who hasn’t had a measles vaccine or infection is recommended to get immunized, watch for symptoms and reduce exposure with others.

The province explains that measles is a highly infectious disease that is spread through coughing or sneezing. It notes an infected individual can spread the virus four days before the rash appears and four days after.

Symptoms begin seven to 21 days after exposure and include fever, runny nose, drowsiness, irritability and red eyes. Several days after these first symptoms, a red splotchy rash appears on the face and moves down the body. Measles can cause further complications including ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia and encephalitis.

If symptoms develop, you are encouraged to isolate at home and contact a health-care provider.

The province emphasizes that immunization is the only way of protecting people from contracting measles. Those who are not vaccinated and have been exposed may be eligible for preventative treatment within six days of exposure and are encouraged to speak to a health-care provider for more information.

A full list of recent measles exposures is available online.