News Release
Health
Two additional cases of measles confirmed, local vaccine clinics planned
31 October 2024
FREDERICTON (GNB) – Two more cases of measles have been confirmed in New Brunswick.
Since notifying the public of a confirmed case on Oct. 24, Public Health has identified two subsequent confirmed cases and is investigating other potential cases. All of these involve people in the initial patient’s close contact network in the upper Saint John River valley.
“It is concerning that the virus has spread to two close contacts of the first case,” said Dr. Mark McKelvie, regional medical officer of health. “Public Health continues to monitor contacts and notify people of potential exposure as it becomes aware. However, if the spread continues to progress, it is possible that Public Health will not be able to identify everyone who has been exposed.”
Horizon Health Network will host a vaccine clinic at the Western Valley Multiplex in the Centreville district of Carleton North on Friday, Nov. 1, from 10:30 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. and on Saturday, Nov. 2, from 9:30 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. Another clinic is being set up at the Stanley Health Centre on Nov. 1 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. People are encouraged to book an appointment through the
provincial scheduler or by calling Tele-Services at 1-833-437-1424 (available Monday to Friday, 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.).
Most people born in 1970 or later can be protected from measles infection with two doses of vaccine. McKelvie said the measles vaccine has been in use for over 50 years and is safe and highly effective at preventing infections. Those who are unsure of their vaccination status, or that of their children, are urged to contact their health-care provider or
local Public Health office.
The vaccine that protects against measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMRV) is for babies aged 12 and 18 months. While those born before 1970 are generally considered to be protected from measles, people born later who have not received two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine should get vaccinated.
The Carleton North and Stanley clinics are for both the MMR and MMRV vaccines and are free of charge for eligible New Brunswickers.
“Given how quickly measles can spread, and given the number of persons now potentially implicated, it is important to take action before this spreads further,” said McKelvie. “If you are not protected through previous exposure or vaccine, then now is the time to get vaccinated. For those who are already protected from measles, the risk remains low. For those who are not yet protected, the risk is unfortunately increased and may change further.”
The measles virus is one of the most contagious infections known. It is transmitted through the air or by direct contact with nasal or throat secretions of an infected person. Measles can be more severe in adults and infants and can lead to complications.
Symptoms of measles may include fever, cough, sore and/or red eyes, runny nose or tiny white spots in the mouth. Within three to seven days, a red blotchy rash will appear, first on the face and then spreading to the body, arms and legs.
People experiencing symptoms consistent with measles should isolate and contact Tele-Care 811 by telephone and follow the operator’s instructions. They should not go to an emergency room, doctor’s office or clinic. Anyone who is seriously ill and needs to go to the emergency room should call ahead to help reduce the risk of spreading the disease.
Further updates, including new potential exposures, will be added to the
Public Health Advisories and Alerts website.
Additional information on measles and immunization
is available online.
31-10-24
https://www2.gnb.ca/content/gnb/en/departments/health/news/news_release.2024.10.0430.html
