Confirmed measles case in York Region

Markhamreview.com
June 10, 2019

York Region Public Health is investigating a laboratory-confirmed case of measles in York Region.

Individuals who attended any of the following York Region locations during the identified times listed below may have been exposed to measles:

LifeLabs
4600 Highway 7, Suite 120, City of Vaughan
June 4, 2019 from 2:15 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Woodbridge Family Physicians
4600 Highway 7, Suite 180, City of Vaughan
June 4, 2019 from 12:00 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.

This includes anyone who was in the main lobby areas and common areas on the first floor between Suites 120 and 180 between 12:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on June 4.

All people who were at the locations during the specified times are advised to immediately do the following:

• Check your immunization record to make sure you and your family members are up-to-date with the measles vaccination (MMR or MMRV). If you are unsure, please check with your health care provider.
• Even if you are up-to-date with your measles vaccination, watch for symptoms of measles until June 25, 2019.

Infants under one year of age, unimmunized pregnant women, unimmunized individuals with a weakened immune system and all others who are not up to date with their measles vaccines are strongly recommended to call York Region Public Health measles information line at 1-877-464-9675 ext. 77280 as soon as possible to discuss treatment options that are effective at preventing measles from developing in those exposed. This treatment needs to be received by end of day June 10 in order to be effective. York Region Public Health can assist in coordinating receipt of this treatment.

People who did not attend any of these locations during the above dates and times are not considered at risk for this measles exposure.

Measles is a highly contagious disease that can spread easily to those who are susceptible or unprotected. The best defense against measles is vaccination. This is a good reminder for all York Region residents to check their immunization history and talk to their health care provider about getting vaccinated.

“Symptoms of measles can include high fever, cough, runny nose, sore eyes or sensitivity to light, small spots in the mouth or throat and a red rash on the face or body” said Dr. Karim Kurji, York Region’s Medical Officer of Health. “Anyone showing symptoms of measles is advised to seek health care as soon as possible and should call the health care provider/facility in advance of visiting to advise the provider/facility of their possible exposure to the measles virus. It is important to identify measles early to help prevent its spread to other people.”

Calling the health care provider/facility in advance of your visit can help the provider/facility make arrangements to reduce the risk of transmitting measles to others.

For more information about measles visit york.ca/health or contact York Region Public Health’s measles information line at 1-877-464-9675 ext. 77280.