The Saskatchewan Health Authority is warning of potential measles exposure in the Saskatoon, Rosetown and Kindersley areas following confirmed cases of the virus.
Residents who were at several locations during the first week of May are being asked to monitor for symptoms and review their vaccination status.
In Saskatoon, possible exposure occurred at:
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Scotiabank (137 Kensington Blvd) on Saturday, May 3, between 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.
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Wal-Mart (225 Betts Avenue) on the same day between 10:15 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.
In Rosetown, the Rosetown Hospital (409 Hwy North) was identified as an exposure site at the following times:
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Sunday, May 4, from 8:45 p.m. to Monday, May 5 at 1:30 a.m.
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Monday, May 5, from 9:15 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.
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Tuesday, May 6, from 3:30 a.m. to Wednesday, May 7 at 3:20 p.m.
Kindersley was not directly listed as an exposure location, but is included in the advisory area due to proximity and potential contact.
Individuals who may have been exposed should call HealthLine 811 if they are unvaccinated, unsure of their vaccination status, or begin to show symptoms of measles, which can appear up to 21 days after exposure.
Common symptoms include:
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Fever
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Cough and runny nose
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Red eyes
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Fatigue or irritability
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Koplik spots (small white spots inside the mouth)
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A red, blotchy rash that begins on the face and spreads downward
The SHA says preventative treatment may be available for up to six days following exposure, but warns not to attend a clinic in person if symptomatic. Those requiring emergency care are urged to call ahead to inform health-care staff of possible exposure, allowing for proper precautions.
Measles is highly contagious and can linger in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours. Infected individuals are contagious from four days before the rash appears to four days after and should remain in strict isolation during this period.
The best protection, health officials say, is vaccination. The measles vaccine is safe, free and nearly 100 per cent effective with two doses. Residents are encouraged to review their immunization history via MySaskHealthRecord or speak with a health provider to ensure their records are current.
For more details on this advisory, immunization information, or to monitor updates, visit: saskhealthauthority.ca/measles.