Four New Measles Exposure Sites in Manitoba
Public health officials from Manitoba Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care have announced four additional measles exposure sites as part of Measles Update #40. Residents who were at these locations on the specified dates and times should monitor for symptoms until the indicated dates and check their immunization records to ensure they are up to date with the measles vaccine (MMR or MMRV).
Exposure Details
The following locations and exposure windows are now listed by Manitoba Health:
Portage Clinic, 140 Ninth St. E., Portage la Prairie — Oct. 4, 12:40 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. Monitor symptoms until Oct. 26.
Winnipeg Adult and Teen Challenge, 83 Kate St., Winnipeg — Sept. 25, 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monitor symptoms until Oct. 17.
Beyond Bread, 368 Main St., Stonewall — Sept. 26, 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Monitor symptoms until Oct. 18.
Interlake Medicentres, Suite 2-330 Third Ave. S., Stonewall — Oct. 1, 12:15 p.m. to 4 p.m. Monitor symptoms until Oct. 23.
Anyone who was present at these sites during the specified windows should watch for measles symptoms and take appropriate precautions. If you were exposed and born in 1970 or later, and have never received a measles vaccine or never had the disease, vaccination is recommended after exposure, when eligible.
Vaccination and Protective Measures
Public health emphasizes vaccination as the best protection. Manitoba’s measles vaccination guidance covers individuals who should receive MMR or MMRV vaccines, with exceptions for certain groups (infants under six months, pregnant people, and those with weakened immune systems). Some individuals may receive preventive treatment if exposed and eligible; health care providers can assess eligibility within six days of exposure.
To minimize risk, close contacts may be asked to isolate and may be advised to get vaccinated. Always call ahead to health facilities so staff can manage exposure risk for others.
Symptom Awareness and When to Seek Care
Measles symptoms typically appear 7 to 21 days after exposure. Early signs include fever, runny nose, tiredness, irritability, and red eyes. Small white spots in the mouth or throat may appear, followed by a red blotchy rash that spreads from the face to the body. Complications can include ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, and encephalitis. If you develop symptoms and have known exposure, isolate at home and contact your health-care provider, informing them of the potential exposure.
Public health notes that measles is highly contagious and spreads via droplets from coughing or sneezing. An infected person can spread the virus from four days before the rash appears to four days after. Immunization remains the most effective defense; parents and adults should contact local immunization providers or public health offices to ensure vaccines are up to date.
Additional Resources
For more information, visit www.gov.mb.ca/health/publichealth/diseases/measles.html or contact Health Links-Info Santé at 204-788-8200 in Winnipeg or 1-888-315-9257 toll-free in Manitoba. Manitoba’s measles webpage is updated weekly each Wednesday with the latest case counts.
What this means for you
If you were at any of the four locations on the specified dates, check your vaccination status and monitor for symptoms through the end dates listed above. If you’re unsure about your immunization history, contact your health-care provider for guidance. Public health will continue to issue updates as the situation evolves.
