The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) issued a public notice on Saturday about a potential measles exposure in Weyburn. Anyone who was at Walmart in Weyburn on April 17 between 3:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. is advised to monitor for symptoms of measles for 21 days following the potential exposure.
Dr. Stanley Enebeli is the Medical Health Officer for Weyburn and Estevan. He says they are investigating the outbreak and believe this is an imported case, as the cases come from the same household, with a recent history of travel to the United States.
“I know this might feel a little bit worrisome for folks in the community and I do understand that. But with measles, we do have a safe and effective vaccine that has been around for decades now that has proven to be very effective. With two doses after the age of one year, you have protection, almost 100% protection. So you're at very low risk of acquiring the measles infection.”
Dr. Enebeli explains most people born after 1970 will have received the measles vaccination, and those born after 1996 will have likely received two documented doses. Anyone born after 1970 can check their health records to see if they require the second dose. This can be done online through Sask eHealth or by reaching out to the Sask HealthLine at 8-1-1.
He attributes the resurgence of the infection to declining vaccination rates since the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We're seeing a combination of factors at play here with, I would say, a resurgence in measles, not just here in Saskatchewan, but also in Canada, and I would say globally as well. And one of the key contributing factors was the COVID pandemic and the decline in services that we saw, as well as perhaps the misinformation and disinformation that was spread about vaccines during the COVID pandemic as well.”
Dr. Enebeli explains that measles is a viral infection that tends to be severe in young children but can affect people of all ages. Some signs and symptoms that indicate the infection include high fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes. After a few days a rash will appear, typically beginning on the face and spreading to the body.
“Another thing that gets us a little bit concerned about measles is it's possible that people can spread the virus to others one or two days before they have any symptoms, until four days after the rash appears.”
This means there is a period of time where people may be unaware that they are sick, and unknowingly spread the virus. Dr. Enebeli says this is why vaccinations are important, as they prevent infection during this period.
In addition to common symptoms, Dr. Enebeli warns measles can lead to serious complications including ear infections, pneumonia, brain infections, and can even lead to death.
Anyone experiencing measles symptoms should isolate immediately, avoid public places such as schools and daycares, and call HealthLine at 8-1-1 before visiting a healthcare facility.
Dr. Enebeli explains their efforts to counteract the spread of measles, saying they’re aiming for a 95% immunization rate of measles-containing vaccines.
“I would say for our neck of the woods, particularly for kiddos who are less than three years old, we have not achieved that, we’re in our early eighties in terms of percentage. I think it is time for those who are unvaccinated to call ahead, call 8-1-1 so that arrangements can be made to book you into a clinic as well.”
He notes the SHA continues to provide updates on measles outbreaks across the province. If potential contacts cannot be identified during investigations, a public service announcement is issued. More information and updates can be found on the SHA website.