Algoma Public Health is warning of more potential exposures to measles in its region.
The health unit says it is investigating additional potential exposure locations in and around Sault Ste. Marie, with the exposures happening May 7th at North Shore Tractor in Echo Bay, as well as Jiffy Lube on Trunk Road, the Service Canada Office on Bay Street, the Taj Indian Cuisine restaurant on Great Northern Road, Hakim Optical on Great Northern Road, Station Tower Optometry, and at Princess Auto on Northern Avenue.
It previously warned of possible exposure on Ontario Northland buses from Barrie to Sudbury and from Sudbury to Sault Ste. Marie on April 17th and May 2nd, linked to cases in Central Algoma.
The health unit says most people born before 1970 are considered immune to the highly contagious disease from natural exposure, whereas those born after are recommended to have two doses of a measles vaccine for full protection, as those who are vaccinated are "very unlikely to get sick or spread measles if exposed", whereas anyone who isn't fully vaccinated and hasn't had measles is considered susceptible, with those at higher risk of severe illness including infants and children under the age of five, pregnant individuals, people with weakened immune systems, and anyone who has not received the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine.
Usually starting 7 to 12 days after exposure - but can take up to 21 - symptoms of measles include runny nose, red, watery eyes, cough, fever, and eventually a red blotchy rash starting on the face and spreading to the rest of the body, though complications could include ear or brain infections, pneumonia, vision or hearing loss, and death.
APH does recommend checking your vaccination status and ensuring your family's immunizations are up to date.
