South East Health Unit Investigating Exposures to a Confirmed Measles Case

South East Health Unit (SEHU) is investigating a confirmed case of measles in the Kingston region. Four instances of potential measles exposures have been identified. If you attended these locations at these dates and times, you may have been exposed to measles:

If you were at any of the above locations during the exposure times:

1. Check vaccination records to ensure protection from measles.

• Immunity requires two doses of a measles vaccine or proof of immunity through a blood test. If you are unsure of your vaccination status:

               - Check your record at: https://kfla.icon.ehealthontario.ca/#!/welcome 

               - Call your healthcare provider

               - Call SEHU’s Kingston office at 613-549-1232

               - Those born before 1970 would likely have had measles as a child and are protected.

               - If you are not vaccinated or have had only one dose of measles vaccine you are eligible for                           vaccination through SEHU and primary care clinics.

               - Call before visiting a health-care setting and notify them of your recent measles exposure. This                     helps protect others and allows health-care providers to prepare for your visit.

2. Monitor for symptoms until 21 DAYS following your exposure date (even if you are vaccinated). Symptoms of measles start seven to 21 days after exposure and may include:

• High fever, cough, runny nose
• Red, watery eyes (pink eye or conjunctivitis)
• Red blotchy rash

If you develop symptoms, stay home and do not go to work, school or daycare. Call your healthcare provider before visiting to let them know you may have measles and need special precautions. You may also call SEHU’s Kingston office at 613 549-1232, Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

3. Please contact SEHU’s Kingston office immediately if you fall into any of the following categories:

• Were with an infant under 12 months of age during exposure.
• Are pregnant and unvaccinated or unsure of your immunity to measles.
• Are immunocompromised.

You may be eligible for preventive treatment (call 613 549-1232 Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)

Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air and can survive on surfaces for up to two hours. Infants, pregnant individuals and those who have a weakened immune system are at higher risk of severe complications, including brain inflammation and even death.

More information on measles can be found at kflaph.ca/measles.