Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) is asking community members to be alert after a possible measles exposure at Seaforth Community Hospital. Anyone who was in the emergency department waiting room on Wednesday, May 14th, 2025, between 11:15 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. may have been exposed to the virus.
Health officials are urging people who were at the hospital during that time to monitor for measles symptoms for 21 days. Measles is very contagious and can stay in the air for up to two hours, which means even a short visit could lead to exposure.
People who were born in or after 1970 and have not received two doses of a measles vaccine, or those who are at higher risk — including individuals with weakened immune systems, pregnant people, or babies under 12 months old — are strongly encouraged to take a self-assessment online to determine their risk.
HPPH continues to investigate and do contact tracing for confirmed cases of measles. When health officials cannot reach everyone who may have been exposed, they issue public notices like this one to help alert the community. More details and updates are available on the HPPH website at www.hpph.ca/measles.
Measles spreads easily through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or breathes. Symptoms often appear seven to 21 days after exposure and may include fever, cough, runny nose, red or watery eyes, and a red blotchy rash that starts on the face and spreads down the body. Small white spots may also appear in the mouth or throat.
If you or a family member develop symptoms after possible exposure, you should stay home and avoid contact with others. Do not invite visitors into your home, and avoid public places. If you need to see a doctor, call ahead and let them know you may have been exposed to measles so they can take proper precautions. If you must leave your home for medical care, wear a well-fitted mask.
You can report possible measles symptoms to HPPH by calling 1-888-221-2133 ext. 3284. Public health staff will provide advice and next steps to keep you and your community safe.