(Unsplash photo)
Officials from the Renfrew County and District Health Unit are encouraging residents to ensure their measles vaccinations are up to date and be aware of symptoms as the province experiences a measles outbreak.
At this time, no cases of measles have been reported in Renfrew County and District but the outbreak involves 177 cases as of Feb. 26, with most of those reported in Southwestern Ontario by Southwestern Public Health and Grand Erie Public Health.
Health experts say over 90% of infections have been in unimmunized individuals.
“The increase in measles infections across Ontario is concerning. I strongly recommend that everyone check their immunization status and ensure they are up to date, which is the most effective thing we can do to prevent the spread of infection in our region,” said Dr. Jason Morgenstern, Medical Officer of Health at the Renfrew County and District Health Unit.
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection with symptoms of fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, fatigue, and red rash. Symptoms usually appear 7 to 21 days after being exposed to the virus. Measles can cause serious health problems, including hospitalization, pneumonia, inflammation of the brain, and, rarely, death. The virus can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through small respiratory droplets in the air.
For more information, including how to know if your vaccinations are up to date as well as vaccination clinic schedules, visit the health unit website or all RCDHU at 613-732-9436 or 1-833-773-0004.
(Sherry Haaima)