Manitoba Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care is warning the public about a new measles exposure in Portage la Prairie.
The province confirms an individual with a measles infection visited the emergency room at Portage District General Hospital on Wednesday, June 12 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Anyone who was there during that time is being asked to monitor themselves for symptoms until July 4.
Check immunization records
Public health officials are encouraging anyone who may have been exposed to verify their vaccination status. The MMR or MMRV vaccines are routinely offered to children in Manitoba at 12 months and again between the ages of four and six. A second dose may be offered earlier if exposure has occurred.
People born in 1970 or later who have never had a measles vaccine and have never had measles are urged to get vaccinated.
When to seek help
Symptoms typically show up 7 to 21 days after exposure. Early signs include fever, runny nose, red eyes, drowsiness and irritability, followed by a blotchy red rash spreading from the face downward. If symptoms do develop, public health recommends isolating at home and calling a health-care provider for advice.
More details on exposure protocols and immunization can be found at www.gov.mb.ca/health/publichealth/diseases/measles.html or by contacting Health Links–Info Santé.
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