York Region Public Health confirmed a fourth case of measles in Ontario Thursday evening, this time one that has an 'unknown' source of infection. (Shutterstock)
York Region Public Health (YRPH) is investigating a confirmed case of measles where the source of infection remains unknown, according to a news release issued Thursday evening by the public health agency. The case involves a man in his 30s who has not recently travelled or been in contact with anyone who is ill. YRPH describes this case as "unique" compared to the three other cases recently reported in the province, one of which led to a child being hospitalized in Toronto.
YRPH is actively reaching out to known contacts who may have been exposed to the confirmed measles case, and additional locations of exposure are currently under investigation. Those who may have been exposed will be directly notified by the health authority.
Measles is highly contagious and spreads easily through airborne transmission, with the virus capable of surviving in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours. Although Canada eliminated the virus in 1998 due to vaccination efforts, sporadic cases still occur, especially as people travel during outbreaks in other parts of the world. Those most vulnerable to severe reactions include infants under one-year-old, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems, as measles can lead to complications like brain damage, deafness, and even death.
YRPH has identified specific locations where individuals may have been exposed to the confirmed measles case, including Melt N Dip Restaurant in Mississauga, the emergency department waiting area at Mackenzie Health Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital, and Vellore Medical Clinic in Woodbridge. The health authority urges individuals who were present at these locations to verify they have received two doses of the measles vaccine. Those born before 1970, who likely had measles as children, are considered protected.
Individuals who believe they may have been exposed to measles should confirm their vaccination status and contact YRPH immediately if they are immunocompromised or have infants aged six months and younger. Symptoms typically appear seven to 21 days after exposure and include cough, runny nose, fever, conjunctivitis, sensitivity to light, white spots in the mouth, and a characteristic red rash.
Given the upcoming March break and the significant measles outbreak in Europe, health authorities are cautioning travellers to ensure they are vaccinated against measles, as international travel increases the risk of exposure to the virus. Peel Public Health (PPH) advises all Ontarians to stay up to date with measles vaccination, particularly before travelling internationally. PPH reminds residents that two publicly funded doses of the MMR measles vaccine are available, with the first dose typically administered after age one and the second dose between four and six years old. Individuals returning from abroad who suspect they may have measles are advised to wear a medical mask, limit contact with others, and notify border services or a flight attendant upon entering the country.
