SUDBURY—One case of confirmed measles is currently being investigated by the Sudbury and District Health Unit (SDHU). This case is the first in the district since 1997. Residents are reminded that measles is a highly contagious disease and the virus that causes it spreads very easily. The SDHU and Health Sciences North are reminding you to consider your health and the health of others before seeking medical attention.
“If you suspect that you or your child has measles, it is very important that you call your health care provider before going to their office, clinic or any hospital emergency department,” said Dr. Penny Sutcliffe, Sudbury and District Medical Officer of Health. “Let them know that you suspect measles. The health care provider can then take precautions in their office to prevent the potential spread to others patients.” Please do not show up unannounced.
Symptoms of measles include: high fever, cough and runny nose, watery, red, and irritated eyes, sensitivity to light, small white spots in the mouth and a red blotchy rash that starts on the head and face, then spreads to the rest of the body.
Other viruses can cause symptoms that are similar to measles. Most people are vaccinated against measles and are protected. However, if you are unsure of your vaccination status or that of your children, please talk to your health care provider or contact the Health Unit and make sure your immunizations are up to date.
“If you suspect that you may have measles, we’d encourage you to first contact your health care provider to seek medical advice before you consider coming to the Emergency Department,” says Dr. Rob Lepage, Medical Director of HSN’s Emergency Department. “If you do plan to visit a health-care provider, call in advance so that the necessary precautions can be taken. The emergency department does have protocols in place to deal with infectious disease.”
People arriving at the ER with symptoms of measles are asked to remain outside the ER, if possible, while the person accompanying them seeks medical personnel to provide an assessment. You are also asked to avoid contact with other patients and visitors.
People who have had two doses of the measles vaccine, or who have had measles in the past, are protected from measles. Most people born before 1970 are likely immune because of previous measles infection.
For more information about measles or immunization, visit www.sdhu.com or call the Health Unit at 705-522-9200. In addition, Telehealth Ontario offers free, confidential health advice or general health information from a Registered Nurse 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-866-797-0000.
