Sask. Health Authority warns of possible measles exposure in Weyburn

The Saskatchewan Health Authority is reporting a possible measles exposure in Weyburn, Sask.

In a news release on May 2, the health authority warned of an exposure to the virus at the Walmart on Sims Avenue on the afternoon of April 17 from 3:45 p.m. to 6:45 p.m.

The SHA is asking individuals who were at that location to monitor themselves for symptoms. 

Measles symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes. As the disease develops in the body, small white spots may appear inside the mouth and throat. Within about three to seven days after symptoms begin, the victim's face may develop a red blotchy rash.

Members of the public who were at the Walmart at that time and exhibit any symptoms are asked to call HealthLine 811 for an assessment. They may also contact their physician or nurse practitioner, but should not attend a clinic if they are symptomatic.

Measles is highly contagious. It can spread very easily to others through the air and can be transmitted through a person touching their face after contacting a contaminated surface, where it can survive for up to two hours after contact.

According to the SHA, once a person catches the virus it can spread from four days before a rash appears until four days afterwards. In order to avoid spreading it to others, the victim should isolate themselves. 

As of April 30 there have been 12 confirmed cases of measles in Saskatchewan in 2025. That follows a single case in 2024, and none since 2019, when there was also a single case. Before that, there were 16 cases in 2014.

There is no known cure for measles, but it can be effectively prevented by vaccination. Vaccines can be obtained for free for anyone born after 1970 who are over 12 months old. They can be accessed at service locations across the province.