Toronto Public Health (TPH) is investigating a confirmed case of measles linked to travel. The case is an infant who is currently hospitalized. Residents should check to ensure they are protected against the measles virus by getting vaccinated before travelling.
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection with symptoms including red rash, fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes and fatigue. It spreads through the air and close contact, such as breathing, coughing or sneezing. Vaccinations are highly effective in preventing the spread of measles.
TPH is following up on known contacts who may have been exposed to the measles virus.
Symptoms may start around 10 days after exposure but can start anywhere from seven to 21 days after exposure. Symptoms generally last for one to two weeks.
Anyone experiencing symptoms should first contact their health care provider, or if not available, call Toronto Public Health at 416-338-7600 (TTY at 416-392-0658).
During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a decline in vaccine coverage rates in school-aged children including for routine vaccinations for measles. School-aged children can catch up on their routine vaccinations by booking an appointment at a TPH community clinic: http://www.tphbookings.ca.
More information is available on the Toronto Public Health measles webpage: https://www.toronto.ca/communi
SOURCE City of Toronto
Leave a Reply