A case of measles has been confirmed in Durham Region, and public health officials are warning that Ajax residents may have been exposed at a local hospital emergency room.
Durham Region Health Department said the case involves a local child who was not immunized and who had a history of recent international travel. The Health Department is investigating and following up directly with known contacts in Durham Region who may have been exposed to the virus.
The department's investigation has determined that members of the public may have been exposed at the Lakeridge Health Ajax-Pickering Emergency Department waiting room. Anyone who was at that location during the exposure period is advised to monitor themselves for signs and symptoms of measles for 21 days after the exposure.
What residents should watch for
Measles is a highly contagious disease that spreads easily to anyone who has not been immunized or has not previously had the illness, according to the Health Department. The virus can remain in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area.
Symptoms typically begin seven to 21 days after infection. Infants under one year of age, unimmunized pregnant individuals, and people with weakened immune systems face an increased risk of complications from measles, the Health Department said.
Anyone who believes they may have been exposed at the Ajax-Pickering hospital emergency department is being directed to the Health Department for guidance. More information about the measles virus is available at durham.ca/Measles.
The Region of Durham can be reached at 311 from within region limits, or at 905-668-7711. The health department posts updates on its website as investigations continue.
