2 cases of measles confirmed on Prince Edward Island, in adults who travelled within Canada

Health officials in Prince Edward Island have recently confirmed two cases of measles, marking the province’s first reported cases since 2013. The Chief Public Health Office in P.E.I. released a statement stating that two adults who had traveled together to an area in Canada where outbreaks were ongoing tested positive for the virus. Both individuals had not been immunized against measles but have since recovered from the illness.

In response to the confirmed cases, public health nursing is providing vaccinations to contacts of the infected individuals as needed, while contact-tracing efforts are currently underway. Fortunately, no public exposures have been identified at this time.

Measles is a highly contagious virus that presents with symptoms such as fever, cough, sore eyes, and a distinctive red rash that spreads from the head to the trunk and limbs. Serious complications, including blindness, viral meningitis, pneumonia, and even death, can occur as a result of measles infection.

The measles virus spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also be transmitted through direct contact with respiratory droplets from an infected person. The virus can remain in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected individual has left the area. An infected person is contagious for four days before the rash appears and for up to four days after.

Individuals who are not vaccinated and have had close contact with someone diagnosed with measles are advised to isolate themselves for 21 days to prevent further spread of the virus. Dr. Heather Morrison, P.E.I.’s chief public health officer, emphasized the importance of vaccination as the most effective method of protection against measles. The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is available at no cost through the provincial immunization program.

People born before 1970 or those who have received two doses of the measles vaccine are considered immune to the virus. The current vaccination recommendations from the Chief Public Health Office include:

– Adults born before 1970 are considered to have natural immunity and do not require the vaccine. Those traveling outside of Canada should receive one dose of the measles vaccine.
– Adults born in or after 1970 who have not had measles or received two doses of the vaccine should receive two doses.
– Students entering post-secondary education, healthcare workers, and military personnel should receive two doses of the vaccine if they have no evidence of prior measles infection or documentation of vaccination.

Residents of P.E.I. who are not up to date with measles vaccinations are encouraged to contact their nearest public health nursing office to inquire about receiving the vaccine free of charge. Anyone experiencing symptoms of measles should call 811 or consult their primary care provider before visiting a healthcare facility to prevent further spread of the virus.

While neighboring provinces like New Brunswick and Nova Scotia have also dealt with measles outbreaks in recent years, officials are closely monitoring the situation and taking necessary precautions to ensure the public’s safety. It is crucial for individuals to stay informed about vaccination recommendations and potential risks before traveling to prevent the spread of preventable diseases like measles.