Toronto Public Health advising residents of potential measles exposure

More information about measles is available on the City of Toronto’s website: toronto.ca/measles-fact-sheet. (Pexels Photo)

By City of Toronto 

Toronto Public Health (TPH) is reporting a case of measles in a person who visited the city. Members of the public could have been exposed to measles on Sunday, March 30 at Fantasy Fair located at Woodbine Mall (500 Rexdale Blvd.) between 11:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. 

Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, sneezes or talks. The virus can stay in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours. People can become infected if they breathe the contaminated air or touch the infected surface, then touch their eyes, nose or mouth. 

This year, TPH has confirmed two cases of measles linked to travel outside Canada. Anyone who believes they may have been exposed to the measles virus at the above location is advised to do the following: 

1. Check vaccination records to ensure you are protected from measles

Measles is a vaccine preventable disease. The vaccine is typically given at 12 months of age, with a second dose given between four to six years of age. Anyone who has not received two doses of the measles vaccine or has not had measles disease is at risk of infection. The vaccine is free for eligible adults through primary care and some walk-in clinics. People born in 1970 or later require two doses of the measles vaccine for the best protection if they have not had the virus.

Anyone born before 1970 may have had a measles infection when the virus was common in Canada. Almost all people unsure about their vaccination status can safely receive the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine. A blood test can also be done to determine immunity. 

2. Monitor for symptoms until Sunday, April 20 

Symptoms can include fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes, a red rash that begins on the face and spreads down the body and small blue-white spots (Koplik spots) that can appear on the inside of the mouth and throat. Stay alert for symptoms even if you have been vaccinated against measles.

If symptoms develop, contact a healthcare provider immediately. 

Call ahead before visiting a clinic or hospital and let them know you may have measles to allow them to prepare and prevent the spread of the virus. Wear a well-fitting mask when getting a medical assessment.  

More information about measles is available on the City of Toronto’s website: toronto.ca/measles-fact-sheet.  

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