Public health alerts: measles exposures in Portage la Prairie and the Interlake
Public health officials in Manitoba are warning residents in Portage la Prairie and the Interlake region to review their immunization records following new measles exposure notices. The alerts come as Manitoba sees a rising number of measles cases, with most infections occurring among those who are unvaccinated or under-vaccinated. Health authorities say prompt action can protect individuals and communities from further transmission.
Exposure sites in Portage la Prairie and Stonewall
Manitoba Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care has identified four new exposure sites. One location is in Portage la Prairie, and two are in Stonewall, with additional details available to the public. If you visited the Portage Clinic at 140 Ninth Street East on October 4 between 12:40 p.m. and 3:15 p.m., you should monitor for measles symptoms until October 26. Exposure timelines for the Stonewall sites are also listed to guide symptom monitoring and testing considerations.
In the Interlake region, potential exposures occurred at Beyond Bread in Stonewall on September 26 from 12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., and at Interlake Medicentres on Third Avenue South on October 1 from 12:15 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. People who were present at these locations during those windows should monitor for symptoms until October 18 and October 23, respectively.
Public health officials emphasize that measles incubation can vary, and people exposed at the specified times should monitor for fever, runny nose, red eyes, cough, and rash during the recommended windows. If symptoms develop, seek medical care promptly and inform the provider about potential exposure.
Expanded vaccine eligibility to curb rising infections
To address the uptick in measles activity, Manitoba Public Health has expanded eligibility for measles vaccination for children aged six months to under 12 months. This expansion applies to residents in or traveling to the Southern Health–Santé Sud or Interlake–Eastern regions, and to those evacuated due to wildfires. The goal is to provide earlier protection to infants who may be at heightened risk due to travel or displacement and to reduce the likelihood of transmission in affected communities.
What this means for families
For families with young children or adults who have not completed their measles vaccination series, this expansion offers an opportunity to safeguard against infection. Parents should consult their child’s vaccination records and contact local health clinics to schedule a vaccine appointment if needed. Immunization with MMR or MMRV remains the most effective defense against measles and helps prevent outbreaks in schools and communities.
Manitoba case numbers and ongoing monitoring
Manitoba reported 22 confirmed and two probable measles cases in September 2025. From February through September 2025, the province tallied 216 confirmed and 18 probable cases, underscoring the importance of vaccination and early exposure awareness. Health authorities are actively monitoring cases and exposures, including those involving travelers from outside the province who may contribute to local transmission.
Protecting yourself and others
Public health guidance remains clear: immunization is the most effective way to protect individuals from measles. In addition to vaccination, monitor for symptoms for up to 21 days after exposure if you were at the specified sites and times. If symptoms appear, isolate yourself and contact a healthcare provider for guidance on testing and treatment. Individuals with unknown vaccination status or those who have not completed the recommended doses should consider getting vaccinated as soon as possible to reduce risk to themselves and others.
Where to get more information
For more details about measles prevention, exposure notices, and vaccination resources, visit gov.mb.ca/health/publichealth/diseases/measles.html. You can also sign up for local news updates and submit tips or photos to news@portageonline.com.
