In Saskatoon, a case of measles has been identified, prompting the Saskatchewan Health Authority to take swift action in notifying potential exposures.
The health authority revealed that the individual contracted the virus during international travel. Five locations have been pinpointed, and individuals who were present during specific time frames are urged to monitor for any signs of measles.
The identified locations are Reitman’s, Dollarama, or Walmart on Clarence Avenue in Stonebridge on Sunday, Jan. 7, between 3:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. Additionally, the Arts Building Cafe on Campus Drive on Thursday, Jan. 9, between 1:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., and the adult emergency waiting room at Royal University Hospital on Tuesday, Jan. 16, between 7 a.m. and 9:30 a.m.
Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, fatigue, irritability, small white spots inside the mouth and throat, and a red, blotchy rash that develops on the face and spreads down the body.
The health authority emphasized that those exhibiting symptoms and were present at the identified locations should wear a mask and contact Healthline 811 for guidance. In case of medical distress, individuals are advised to seek emergency care or call 911, specifying potential exposure to measles.
Measles is highly contagious and can spread through contaminated air or surfaces. The virus can survive in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours in a space where an infected person coughed or sneezed. Transmission can occur from four days before a rash appears until four days after its development, requiring strict isolation during this period to prevent spreading the infection.
Individuals potentially exposed at the hospital, born in 1964 or later, may be eligible for preemptive treatment if they haven't received two doses of the measles vaccine. The health authority has organized a drop-in clinic for Saturday and Sunday, with details available on their website.
The health authority emphasizes the efficacy and safety of the measles vaccine, stressing that with two doses, vaccination is almost 100 percent effective in preventing measles.