Public health officials are alerting the public to four new measles exposure sites in Manitoba, including a location in Steinbach.
According to Manitoba Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care, individuals who visited the Steinbach QuickCare Clinic at 381 Stone Bridge Crossing on June 10 between 12:50 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. may have been exposed to measles. Those affected are asked to monitor for symptoms until July 2.
Three other exposure sites have also been identified:
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Boundary Trails Health Centre Emergency Department at PTH 3 and PTH 14 on June 7 from 3 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. (monitor until June 29)
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Plum Coulee School, 155 Government Rd., Plum Coulee, on June 5 from 8:30 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. and again on June 6 from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (monitor until June 27 and 28, respectively)
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Portage District General Hospital Emergency Room, 524 Fifth St. SE, Portage la Prairie, on June 12 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (monitor until July 4)
Public health is working directly with Plum Coulee School to notify staff, volunteers, and families with tailored guidance.
Officials urging vaccination
Anyone who was present at one of the affected locations during the exposure period is encouraged to check their immunization records. Measles vaccine (MMR or MMRV) is recommended for individuals born in 1970 or later who have not had measles or received the vaccine.
People who are unable to receive the vaccine—including infants under six months, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems—are advised to contact their health-care provider or public health for possible preventive treatment.
Symptoms of measles typically appear 7 to 21 days after exposure and may include fever, runny nose, irritability, red eyes, and a blotchy red rash that spreads from the face to the rest of the body. More serious complications can include pneumonia, diarrhea, ear infections, or inflammation of the brain (encephalitis).
If symptoms develop, individuals should isolate at home and contact their health-care provider in advance to prevent further exposure to others. Close contacts of symptomatic individuals who are not immunized should also minimize contact with others.
Expanded eligibility during wildfire evacuations
In response to recent wildfire evacuations, the province has expanded MMR vaccine eligibility to include children aged six to under 12 months who have been displaced. One additional dose can be provided to these children outside of the routine vaccination schedule.
Vaccines are available through local public health offices, family physicians or nurse practitioners. More information, including updates on case numbers and eligibility, is available at gov.mb.ca/health/publichealth/diseases/measles.html.