Health officials have confirmed new Durham Region Measles Cases after two additional infections were identified in unimmunized children, raising concerns about possible public exposure in Oshawa.
According to Durham Region Health Department officials, three measles infections have now been confirmed within the same household. Two of those cases were recently identified in children who had not received measles vaccinations.
Health investigators say individuals in the community may have been exposed to the virus at several healthcare locations in Oshawa.
Public health officials identified potential exposure sites connected to the Durham Region Measles Cases, including Ritson North Medical Urgent Care on Ritson Road North and the Emergency Department waiting room at Lakeridge Health Oshawa.
The exposure window at Lakeridge Health Oshawa occurred on March 2 between 11:25 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Additional possible exposure times were identified at Ritson Road Medical Centre Urgent Care on the following dates:
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February 26 from 1:45 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
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March 2 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
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March 4 from 3 p.m. to 5:15 p.m.
Durham Region Health Department officials say they are actively investigating the Durham Region Measles Cases and contacting individuals who may have been exposed.
Public health officials are advising residents to confirm that they and their family members have received two doses of the measles vaccine, either MMR or MMRV.
People born before 1970 are generally considered protected because many were exposed to measles during childhood.
Anyone who is unsure about their vaccination status is encouraged to contact their healthcare provider for guidance.
Health officials also stress that anyone who develops symptoms associated with the Durham Region Measles Cases should stay home and avoid attending work, school, or public places.
Residents experiencing symptoms are advised to call ahead before visiting a medical clinic or hospital so healthcare staff can prepare to prevent further spread of the virus.
Symptoms of measles typically appear seven to 21 days after infection and may include:
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High fever above 38.3 degrees Celsius
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Persistent cough
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Runny nose
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Red or watery eyes and sensitivity to light
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A red rash lasting four to seven days
Measles is considered one of the most contagious viral diseases. The virus can remain in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours, making it easy to spread among individuals who are not immunized.
Infants under one year of age, pregnant individuals who are not vaccinated, and people with weakened immune systems face a higher risk of serious complications.
Health officials note that more than 2,000 measles cases were reported in Ontario last year, with approximately 75 percent of cases occurring in unvaccinated children.
Durham Region residents who believe they may have been exposed to the Durham Region Measles Cases can contact the Durham Health Connection Line at 905-668-2020 or 1-800-841-2729 for advice and support.
