Toronto Public Health investigating additional risk of exposure to the second measles case of 2024

Toronto Public Health (TPH) is advising of additional risk of exposure at a new location in relation to the second travel-related measles case of 2024 previously identified in Scarborough.

The public may have been further exposed to measles on Friday, March 15 while attending a Mom and Babies program at St. James Town Public Library or at the Wellesley Community Centre from 1 to 5:30 p.m. TPH advises anyone who believes they may have been exposed to the measles virus at one of these locations to do the following:

1. Anyone with a weakened immune system including infants and pregnant people should call Toronto Public Health right away.
   High risk individuals such as young children, pregnant women and immune compromised individuals can receive a medication called immune globulin within six days of an exposure. The immunoglobulin can prevent or reduce the severity of an infection. Call TPH at 416-338-7600.
2. Check vaccination record to ensure protection from measles.
   Those born before 1970 are considered immune as measles was widely circulating at that time. However, those unsure if they had a previous measles infection are encouraged to get one dose of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine for protection. Anyone born in 1970 or later requires two doses of a measles vaccine or proof of immunity through a blood test. Those unsure of their vaccination status are asked to contact their healthcare provider by phone or e-mail.
3. Monitor for symptoms until April 5.
   Do not attend work or school and seek medical care if symptoms arise. Anyone exposed to measles can develop symptoms up to 21 days after the exposure. Symptoms can include a high fever, cold-like symptoms, cough, runny nose, small spots with white centres which appear inside the mouth, sore eyes, sensitivity to light and a red blotchy rash lasting four to seven days. Remain watchful for symptoms even if vaccinated against measles. Call ahead to clinics for precautionary measures and testing. Follow medical advice promptly for proper care and containment.

All Ontarians are eligible for free measles vaccination. School-aged children can catch up on their routine vaccinations by booking an appointment with their primary healthcare provider or by attending a TPH community clinic. The vaccine is free for adults through primary care and some walk-in clinics.

Measles is a highly contagious disease that can spread easily to others. Vaccination is usually given at 12 months and between four to six years of age. Anyone who has not had two doses of a measles vaccine such as the MMR vaccine or has not had measles in the past is at risk of infection.

More information is available on the Toronto Public Health measles webpage.

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