Public health officials are warning people in southern Manitoba to watch for measles symptoms after several possible exposure sites were identified in Winkler and Portage la Prairie.
Manitoba Health says anyone who was at the listed locations during the affected times should monitor for symptoms and make sure their measles vaccinations are up to date.
Potential exposure sites include:
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Shindleman Aquatic Centre in Portage la Prairie on Jan. 25
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Bill’s Sticky Fingers restaurant in Portage la Prairie on Jan. 25
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Boundary Trails Health Centre emergency department near Winkler on Jan. 19 and Jan. 21–22
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Real Canadian Superstore in Winkler on Jan. 21
People who were exposed should watch for symptoms until mid-February, depending on the date of exposure.
Health officials are urging anyone born in 1970 or later who has never had measles or been vaccinated to get the measles vaccine. Those who may have been exposed are also asked to limit contact with others, especially infants, pregnant people, and anyone with a weakened immune system.
Measles symptoms usually appear seven to 21 days after exposure and can include fever, runny nose, red eyes, and fatigue. A red rash often appears a few days later, starting on the face and spreading downward. Measles can cause serious complications, especially in young children.
Anyone who develops symptoms should stay home and call their health-care provider before visiting a clinic.
Measles spreads easily through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Health officials say vaccination is the best way to prevent infection.
The province says it will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates online.
