For Immediate Release
Wednesday February 28, 2024 | 9:30 a.m. | Windsor and Essex County
There has been a significant increase of measles activity worldwide, with measles cases recently reported in Ontario. As March Break approaches for many in the region, the WECHU strongly advises everyone to ensure they are up to date with all their vaccinations, including measles, prior to travelling. Individuals who are not fully vaccinated can get measles when travelling to countries where the disease is circulating. Please contact your health care provider to confirm whether you are immune to measles. If needed, measles vaccination should ideally be given at least two weeks before departure.
The measles virus is highly contagious and spreads easily in the air when an infected person coughs, talks, or sneezes, and then another person breathes in the virus particles in the air, even up to 2 hours after the person with the infection has left a closed space. It can also be spread by direct contact with the mucus or saliva (spit) of a person with measles. Like many other viruses, the measles virus can enter a person’s mouth or nose through kissing or sharing food and drinks. If you present with the following symptoms, with or without a blotchy red rash, which starts on the face and then moves down the body, contact your health care provider:
- High fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red and watery eyes
- Tiny white spots on the inside of the mouth and throat
If you or your children are exposed to measles, you should isolate yourself and consult your healthcare provider for medical advice to prevent the spread of infection.
For additional information about measles, including signs and symptoms, how it spreads, how it is treated, and how it can be prevented, please visit: https://www.wechu.org/z-health-topics/measles