The Saskatchewan Health Authority is warning the public about a risk of measles exposure in Kindersley following confirmation of multiple cases in the community.
Residents who visited certain locations between May 5 and May 8 are being urged to monitor for symptoms of the highly contagious virus for up to 21 days after their potential exposure.
The locations and times include:
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Cameron’s Clothing Company, 705 11 Ave E
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Monday, May 5: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
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Tuesday, May 6: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
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Wednesday, May 7: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
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Friday, May 8: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
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Kindersley Regional Park & Golf Course Pro Shop, 1 Ditson Dr
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Wednesday, May 7: 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
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People who were at these locations during the times listed should contact HealthLine 811 if they are unvaccinated, unsure of their vaccination status, or begin to develop symptoms.
Measles symptoms can include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, fatigue, irritability, and small white spots in the mouth and throat. A red blotchy rash usually appears on the face and spreads downward three to seven days after the initial symptoms, lasting up to a week.
Preventative treatment may be available for up to six days after exposure. SHA advises individuals not to visit a clinic in person if symptomatic. Instead, call HealthLine 811 for instructions.
The authority also urges anyone in medical distress not to delay care, but to inform emergency personnel ahead of time if they may have been exposed to measles, so appropriate precautions can be taken.
Measles spreads easily through the air and on surfaces. The virus can remain infectious for up to two hours in a space where someone coughed or sneezed. Infected individuals can transmit the virus from four days before until four days after the rash appears and must isolate during that period.
Vaccination is the best protection. The measles vaccine is safe, free, and almost 100 per cent effective with two doses. Immunization records can be reviewed on MySaskHealthRecord or with a healthcare provider.
For more information on exposure alerts, symptoms, and vaccination, visit saskhealthauthority.ca/measles.