Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) has confirmed a case of measles in the region, marking the first laboratory-confirmed infection in Huron and Perth counties. Officials have completed contact tracing and will not share further details about the case.
Dr. Lauren Hayward, a Physician Consultant at HPPH, says measles cases have been increasing in southwestern Ontario, and now is a good time for residents to review information about the virus and vaccination.
Measles is highly contagious and spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or breathes. The virus can stay in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours.
Symptoms usually appear seven to 21 days after exposure and include fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes, and drowsiness. A red blotchy rash typically starts on the face and spreads down the body a few days after symptoms begin. In some cases, complications like pneumonia, ear infections, hearing loss, and brain swelling can occur.
People with measles can spread the virus four days before the rash appears and up to four days after. Most recover within two to three weeks, but severe cases can be life-threatening.
Anyone who thinks they have measles or may have been exposed should stay home, avoid visitors, and call ahead before visiting a doctor. If medical care is needed, wearing a well-fitted mask is recommended to prevent spreading the virus.