Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) is warning residents about possible measles exposure at three local hospitals. People who visited these hospitals during specific times may have been exposed to the highly contagious virus.
The exposures happened on March 28-30 at Listowel Memorial Hospital, Stratford General Hospital, and Wingham and District Hospital.
Listowel Memorial Hospital | Emergency Department | 255 Elizabeth St E, Listowel
· Friday, March 28, 2025| 9:07 a.m. to 12:21 p.m.
Stratford General Hospital | Emergency Room Waiting Room | 46 General Hospital Dr, Stratford
· Friday, March 28, 2025| 11:10 a.m. to 1:10 p.m.
Wingham and District Hospital | Emergency Room Department | 270 Carling Terrace, Wingham
· Friday, March 28, 2025| 9:39 p.m. to 11:59 p.m.
· Saturday, March 29, 2025| 12 a.m. to 1:15 a.m.
· Sunday, March 30, 2025| 1:49 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Health officials urge anyone who was at these locations during the listed times to check their vaccination status.
People born in 1970 or later who have not had two doses of the measles vaccine, as well as those at high risk (pregnant individuals, infants under 12 months, and those with weakened immune systems), should contact HPPH at 1-888-221-2133 ext. 3299. Even those who were only present briefly could be at risk since measles can linger in the air for up to two hours.
Measles is a serious virus that spreads through coughing, sneezing, or breathing. It can lead to complications such as ear infections, pneumonia, and, in rare cases, brain swelling or death. Symptoms usually appear 7 to 21 days after exposure and include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash that starts on the face before spreading.
Anyone who develops symptoms after possible exposure should stay home and avoid contact with others. If medical care is needed, call ahead before visiting a clinic or hospital. Wearing a mask is advised to prevent further spread.
For more details, visit www.hpph.ca/measles or call HPPH for guidance.
Written by: K. Milhomens