Measles

I am sure by now many of you have heard that Measles is on the rise -- in North America essentially -- and has made it's way here, to Waterloo Region.

Measles is a highly contagious disease that spreads through the air when a person with measles coughs or sneezes. Measles can be dangerous to some people and it is very important that you be alert to any symptoms of measles, which include the following:

• Fever

• Cough

• Runny nose

• Conjunctivitis

• A rash that starts on the head and spreads to the rest of the body

If you or a family member have any of these symptoms, please stay home and away from others. Call your healthcare provider, or if you don't have one, call to an Emergency Department and let them know you need to be seen or bring someone in with Measles symptoms.  

Pregnant women, children under 1 year of age, and people with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of complications from measles. If you have symptoms or have been exposed to someone with Measles, it is very important to be seen by your health care provider, or if you don't have one, call Waterloo Region Public Health (519-575-4400) for direction.

For decades, people born before 1970 have been considered immune and protected against measles. However, recently Waterloo Region Public Heath has advised that is no longer their policy and cautions that with exposure, a blood test for immunity is required. It is considered that individuals who have received 2 measles vaccinations (2 MMR vaccines, for example) are immune and likely protected against measles. If you are unsure of your vaccination history, or if your child has only received 1 MMR vaccine, discuss it with your healthcare provider or call Woolwich Community Health Centre to determine if you or your child need to be vaccinated now.

If you or your family members are looking to be vaccinated with the MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) vaccine, please know that even if you are not a patient of the WCHC (St Jacobs, Wellesley and Linwood) you are still able to be vaccinated at one of our sites.

Measles vaccine is safe and effective. Two doses of MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles; one dose is about 93% effective.

To be vaccinated or for more information call Woolwich Community Health Centre

519-664-3794 (St. Jacobs site)

519-656-9025 (Wellesley site)

Rural Community Health Nurse - Paula Ballak 226-338-4132

Stay Healthy!!