Measles case suspected in Burlington
North Burlington Medical Centre possible exposure site for measles
Burlington is dealing with a “probable case” of measles – which if confirmed would be the fourth case that originated from a Hamilton resident.
The Halton Region Health Department is warning the public that the North Burlington Medical Centre is a possible exposure site. The potential new case is a child.
- READ MORE: Measles outbreak in Hamilton came from the Philippines
- READ MORE: Hamilton woman tests positive for measles
Anyone who visited the medical centre on Appleby Line on April 19 between 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. is encouraged to contact the health department, the department said in a news release.
This possible measles case started with a Hamilton resident, which led to another person being infected in Hamilton, then a Halton case, and now this one.
The first confirmed measles infection in the region came from a man who travelled to the Philippines on March 14.
Measles is spread through the air, and people are usually contagious before they have symptoms. A bad cough, runny nose, fever, sensitivity to light and red-watery eyes are symptoms commonly associated with the virus. Spots with a white centre can also appear inside the mouth. A red rash may also appear and last for four to seven days.
About four days after infection, a rash starts at the face and moves down the body. White spots may appear inside the mouth. People with measles are contagious until four days after the rash first appears.
The virus spreads easily to people who aren’t immune. Infants under a year of age, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems can get particularly ill.
Complications can include ear infections, pneumonia, croup and brain inflammation.