Measles outbreak confirmed in Hastings County

Nine cases of measles have been confirmed in Hastings County, and the local health unit is warning of community exposure. The South East Health Unit advised of a measles exposure that occurred at the Central Hastings Family Health Team in Madoc, Ont., between 11:11 a.m. and 1:11 p.m. last Thursday. The health unit is working with the medical centre to identify possible contacts.

Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads easily through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, sneezes, or talks, the health unit said in a Wednesday afternoon news release. Symptoms of measles can begin anywhere from one to three weeks after exposure and include fever, runny nose, cough, drowsiness, and red eyes. Small white spots may appear on the inside of the mouth and throat, and a red, blotchy rash appears on the face and spreads down the body three to seven days after symptoms begin, the health unit added.

As of yesterday, the health unit had confirmed just one case and was investigating other probable cases. It said in a Tuesday news release that the first positive case was an unvaccinated adult who had traveled within the province. The South East Health Unit is recommending that anyone who has been exposed confirm that their family members have received two doses of the measles vaccine and, if symptoms develop, to stay home and contact a health-care provider. Those born before 1970 would likely have had measles as a child and are protected, the health unit said.

Medical experts are urging people to get vaccinated for measles, as the total number of cases in the first two months of this year in Ontario has already surpassed the total number of cases for all of last year.

It is crucial to take necessary precautions and follow the recommendations provided by the health unit to prevent the spread of measles in the community. Stay informed, stay safe, and prioritize your health and well-being.