Chatham-Kent health unit warns of possible measles exposure at hospital ER
An individual may have exposed others to the virus during several stretches this past week, officials said
The Chatham-Kent public health unit and the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance are warning people who visited the hospital emergency room at certain times this past week that they may have been exposed to measles.
An individual infected with measles may have exposed community members to the virus at the following times, according to a news release issued Thursday by CK Public Health.
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Chatham-Kent Health Alliance emergency department from Sunday, Jan. 26 at 9 p.m. to Monday, Jan. 27 at 2:30 a.m.
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Chatham-Kent Health Alliance emergency department from Wednesday, Jan. 29 at 10 p.m. to Thursday, Jan. 30 at 5:30 a.m.
The health unit is asking anyone who was in the ER during that time and who is not up to date with their vaccinations to call CK Public Health at 519-352-7270 ext. 5902.
It is particularly urging those who were present with an infant under a year old, those who are pregnant or immunocompromised and those who are not vaccinated against measles to contact them right away, as they may qualify for preventative treatment.
Staff are also asking anyone who was in the ER at those times to check their immunization history or contact their healthcare provider to confirm that their measles vaccine is up to date.
People who have received two doses of a measles vaccine, or who have been previously infected with measles, or who were born before 1970, are generally protected from infection, the health unit said.
Anyone who was in the emergency room during the previously-mentioned times should also watch for symptoms of measles for up to 21 days after exposure, even if they are up to date with their vaccines.
People who are unvaccinated should avoid contact with vulnerable populations, including pregnant individuals and children.
Anyone who has been exposed to measles or who is a contact of someone who has been exposed, or who has symptoms should contact health care settings before visiting them to give them time to prepare for their arrival and prevent further exposure, the health unit said.
There is more information about measles on the health unit's website.