Photo by: B. Shakyaver
Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) is letting the public know about a recent measles exposure that happened at Clinton Public Hospital. The possible exposure took place in the emergency department waiting room at 98 Shipley Street, Clinton, on Thursday, May 8th, between 4:45 p.m. and 7:15 p.m.
Anyone who was in that area during this time should watch for signs of measles for 21 days after the exposure. Measles is a very contagious illness that spreads through the air and can stay in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours, even after an infected person has left.
People who were born in or after 1970 and have not received two doses of the measles vaccine, as well as those at higher risk of serious illness (such as people with weakened immune systems, pregnant individuals, or infants under 12 months old), are asked to complete a self-assessment at https://bit.ly/ExposureAssessment.
HPPH is continuing to track the case and is contacting anyone who may have been exposed. When officials are not able to reach everyone, they issue public notices to keep the community informed.
Measles can cause symptoms such as fever, runny nose, cough, red and watery eyes, and sometimes small white spots inside the mouth and throat. It can lead to more serious health problems like ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, and in rare cases, brain swelling or death.
For more information about measles, including how to protect yourself and others, visit www.hpph.ca/measles.
Written by: K. Milhomens