Confirmed measles case in Milton, public health officials concerned about exposure

Ontario | Halton | Milton | Health |

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Published April 10, 2024 at 1:06 pm

halton milton measles

A case of measles has been confirmed in Milton and health officials are concerned about people who may have been exposed.

Halton Region Public Health is investigating a confirmed, travel-related case of measles in Milton that has led to potential exposures in Halton from April 2 to 5. Measles is a highly contagious disease that spreads easily through the air.

“Measles is a serious disease that can be prevented with a safe and effective vaccine. I encourage everyone to ensure their immunizations, including for measles, are up to date, particularly children who may have missed their routine shots during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Dr. Deepika Lobo, Medical Officer of Health for Halton Region, in a statement.

Officials are reaching out to known contacts who may have been exposed to the measles virus at the following locations during these dates and times:

  • Milton Trails Medical Clinic, 6521 Derry Rd West, Suite 8, Milton, on Tuesday, April 2, from 12:45 to 4 p.m.
  • Milton District Hospital Emergency Department, 725 Bronte Street South, Milton, on Thursday, April 4, from 1:33 to 7:06 p.m.
  • Milton Trails Medical Clinic, 6521 Derry Rd West, Suite 8, Milton, on Friday, April 5, from 2 to 4:40 p.m.

If you visited these locations during the times noted, you should check your immunization records to make sure you and any people who accompanied you have up-to-date measles vaccinations (two doses are recommended for anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1970). Your immunization record (yellow card) or your doctor can provide you with this information.

Infants under one year of age, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems can get very ill with measles and should contact Halton Region Public Health or their health care professional immediately for further assessment.

Watch for symptoms of measles until 21 days after exposure. Symptoms can appear 7 to 21 days after contact with someone who has the measles virus.

Measles symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, sleepiness, irritability, small white spots on the inside of the mouth (Koplik spots), and a red blotchy rash that first starts on the face and spreads down the body, arms, and legs (this rash can last four to seven days).

If you think you may have measles and need to see a doctor, you must call ahead to the doctor’s office, walk-in clinic or emergency department. This will allow health care staff to take the necessary precautions to reduce the risk of infection and protect others visiting the office, clinic or hospital.

No other locations were identified where the public may have been exposed to this case.

For more information about measles, visit Halton Region’s Preventing Communicable Diseases webpage.

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