Measles Update: Four New Exposure Sites in Manitoba
Public health officials in Manitoba have identified four new measles exposure locations as part of ongoing surveillance. Anyone who was at these sites on the specified dates and times should monitor for symptoms through the indicated end dates and verify their measles vaccination status. Manitoba Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care is urging residents to stay informed and take preventive steps to protect themselves and others, especially those with weakened immune systems or unimmunized individuals in their households.
Details of the New Exposure Sites
The following locations and exposure windows have been released:
- Portage Clinic, 140 Ninth St. E., Portage la Prairie — Oct. 4, 12:40 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. Monitor until Oct. 26.
- Winnipeg Adult and Teen Challenge, 83 Kate St., Winnipeg — Sept. 25, 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monitor until Oct. 17.
- Beyond Bread, 368 Main St., Stonewall — Sept. 26, 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Monitor until Oct. 18.
- Interlake Medicentres, Suite 2-330 Third Ave. S., Stonewall — Oct. 1, 12:15 p.m. to 4 p.m. Monitor until Oct. 23.
Public health notes that exposure timelines can inform risk, and individuals should be vigilant for measles symptoms during the entire monitoring period.
Vaccination and Prevention
For those born in 1970 or later who have never been vaccinated and have never had measles, vaccination is recommended after exposure. It is also advised to review immunization records and ensure readings are current with the MMR or MMRV vaccines. Some individuals may be eligible for vaccination or preventative options within six days of exposure.
Who Should Not Get the Vaccine?
Infants younger than six months, pregnant women in certain circumstances, and people with weakened immune systems should not receive the measles vaccine. They should contact a health-care provider or public health to discuss alternatives, as some may be eligible for preventative treatment within the six-day exposure window.
Actions for Exposed Individuals
Close contacts may be asked to isolate at home and consider vaccination. When seeking care, it is best to call ahead so health-care staff can take steps to minimize exposure to others. Symptoms typically appear seven to 21 days after exposure and can include fever, runny nose, drowsiness, irritability, red eyes, and a rash that starts on the face and spreads downward. Early consultation with a health-care provider is recommended if exposure is suspected.
Additional Resources
Organized information about measles, exposures, and immunization is available at the Manitoba government health site. People in Winnipeg can contact Health Links-Info Santé at 204-788-8200, and toll-free in Manitoba at 1-888-315-9257. If symptoms appear, self-isolate and contact a health-care provider, noting recent exposure to measles.
Public Health Monitoring
Manitoba Health will continue monitoring the measles situation and issue updates as needed. The measles page is updated weekly, every Wednesday, with new case counts and exposure notices.
