Public health officials in Manitoba are warning the public about new places where people may have been exposed to measles. Some of the new cases have no clear link to travel or contact with other known cases.
If you were at any of the locations below and haven’t been contacted directly, you’re asked to call Health Links-Info Santé at 204-788-8200 (Winnipeg) or 1-888-315-9257 (toll-free in Manitoba).
Possible Exposure Locations:
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Winkler Mennonite Church, 31 Willowdale Cres., Winkler – May 8, 7:30–11:00 p.m.
Watch for symptoms until May 30. -
Gretna Elementary School, 622 9th St., Gretna – May 5, 7, and 8, 9:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Watch for symptoms until May 30. -
Bus #38 (serving Gretna Elementary School) – May 5, 7, and 8
7:50–11:00 a.m. and 3:30–6:20 p.m.
Watch for symptoms until May 30. -
Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra event at Centre Culturel Franco-Manitobain, 340 Provencher Blvd., Winnipeg – May 11, 12:50–4:15 p.m.
Watch for symptoms until June 2. -
Dave and LaVerne’s Modern Diner, 15 Lakewood Dr, Winnipeg – May 11, 2:30–6:00 p.m.
Watch for symptoms until June 2.
Public health officials are working with the school to contact students, staff, volunteers, and families to give them advice. Everyone connected to the school or bus route will receive a letter with information.
What are the symptoms of measles?
Symptoms usually appear 7 to 21 days after being exposed. Early symptoms include:
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Fever
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Runny nose
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Red eyes
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Feeling very tired or cranky
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White spots in the mouth or throat
A few days later, a red, blotchy rash starts on the face and spreads down the body.
Measles can cause serious problems like:
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Ear infections
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Diarrhea
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Pneumonia (lung infection)
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Encephalitis (swelling of the brain)
What should you do if you feel sick?
If you have symptoms and may have been exposed:
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Stay home and isolate from others
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Call your doctor or health-care provider before going in
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Unvaccinated people in your home should avoid contact with others until a doctor gives advice
How does measles spread?
Measles spreads through coughing and sneezing. It is one of the most contagious diseases and can spread four days before and after the rash shows up. It’s most dangerous for babies and young children.
How can you protect yourself?
Vaccination is the best way to protect against measles. In Manitoba, children usually get two doses:
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The first dose at 1 year old
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The second dose at 4 to 6 years old
Sometimes, a second dose may be given earlier if there’s a risk of exposure.
For more information on measles and vaccines, visit gov.mb.ca or call Health Links-Info Santé at 204-788-8200 (Winnipeg) or 1-888-315-9257 (toll-free).
