Manitoba Health has identified two new measles exposure sites in the province, including Green Valley School in Grunthal.
According to a provincial notice issued Friday, individuals at the school on May 20 between 8:50 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., and again between 2:15 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., may have been exposed to the virus.
The province is advising those present during these times to monitor for symptoms until June 11 and to verify their immunization status for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR or MMRV).
Public health officials say they are working directly with the school to provide guidance to staff, volunteers, and student families.
Letters with additional information are being distributed to those affected.
The second exposure site is the Manitoba Museum, also on May 20.
Recommendations for those exposed
The province recommends that individuals born in 1970 or later who have neither had measles nor received a vaccine get immunized. It also advises limiting contact with others, particularly individuals who are immunocompromised or unvaccinated.
The measles vaccine is not recommended for pregnant people, infants under six months, or those with weakened immune systems, Manitoba Health says.
It urges anyone in these groups who may have been exposed to consult their health care provider for preventive options.
Some close contacts may be asked to self-isolate.
As part of its outbreak response, the province has expanded measles vaccine eligibility to include wildfire evacuees aged six months to one year. One dose of MMR vaccine may be given in addition to the routine immunization schedule.
“Immunization is the only means of protecting people from contracting measles,” Manitoba Health says.
Measles symptoms and transmission
Measles symptoms typically appear one to three weeks after exposure and may include fever, runny nose, drowsiness, irritability, and red eyes.
Small white spots in the mouth or throat may develop, followed by a red, blotchy rash that starts on the face and spreads down the body.
According to Manitoba Health, measles is highly contagious and can cause severe complications, especially in infants and young children.
Anyone with symptoms is advised to self-isolate and contact their health care provider.
The virus spreads through airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing and can be transmitted from four days before the rash appears, to four days after.
Public health officials say they will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as needed.