Measles Health Alert

Measles cases have been identified in Chatham-Kent. Check your vaccine records to ensure you and your family are protected. 

Individuals and/or their children who have been exposed to the measles virus and are not fully vaccinated are advised to call CK Public Health at 519-352-7270 ext 5902.

If you are experiencing symptoms of measles and need to visit a healthcare provider, emergency department or walk-in clinic, call first and tell them you have had an exposure and measles symptoms.

Measles Exposure Locations in Chatham-Kent

The following locations have been identified as potential measles exposure sites within the community. If you were present at any of the following locations during the specified timeframes, you may have been exposed to measles. 

As new measles cases are confirmed, this chart will be updated regularly. Information may change as new exposures are identified and current exposures become outdated.  Locations will be added or removed as case details evolve.  

Please note that this list includes only known measles exposure locations, and there may be other sites that have not yet been identified.  

Measles

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection (an illness caused by a virus) that spreads easily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks. The virus can also be spread by touching contaminated surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, countertop and shared objects) and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. It can remain active in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours, making it highly transmissible in shared spaces. 

Measles can lead to serious complications, including ear infections, pneumonia, and brain damage. While rare, it can be fatal.  

Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and your family from measles. Check or update your immunization record to ensure you and your family are up to date with vaccinations. 

 

What To Do If You Were Exposed to Measles

If You Are Protected

You are generally protected from measles if:

  • You have received two doses of the measles-containing vaccine (MMR or MMRV)
  • If you were born before 1970, you are generally considered protected due to likely exposure to the virus during childhood. 
  • If you have had measles in the past, you are also considered protected. 

      As a precautionary measure, it is still important to monitor for symptoms for 21 days after exposure.  

      If You Are Not Protected

      If you are not protected from measles—for example, if you were born in 1970 or later and have never received a measles vaccine or had a measles infection—follow these steps: 

      Signs & Symptoms

      Measles symptoms usually appear 7 to 21 days after exposure. 

      Diagnosis & Treatment

      Measles is diagnosed through laboratory tests. To confirm the diagnosis, a healthcare provider will collect a sample, which may include: 

      • Swabs from your nose or throat 
      • A blood test 
      • A urine test 

          There is no specific treatment for measles, but medications can help relieve symptoms and manage any complications. Most people with measles recover at home, but severe cases may require hospitalization. 

          A healthcare provider will likely: 

          • Recommend medications to reduce fever 
          • Advise you to drink plenty of fluids and get lots of rest 

            If your symptoms worsen, contact your healthcare provider. 

            Measles vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and others from the virus and prevent infection. 

            Prevention & Vaccine Eligibility

            The most effective way to prevent measles is through vaccination. Two doses of a measles-containing vaccine provide nearly 100% protection against infection. 

            Who Should Get Vaccinated?

            Reporting to CK Public Health

            Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)