Northwestern Health Unit confirms case of measles, alarming rise in numbers seen in Canada in a year
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The Northwestern Health Unit has confirmed the region’s first case of measles as the disease begins a worrying increase in spread across the province and country — even causing a temporary outbreak in Ontario.
The matter was reported to be from Kenora area. The health unit says the person diagnosed is following appropriate public health measures.
“Measles is a very contagious virus and can cause serious illness. Signs and symptoms usually begin with malaise, cough, sneezing, runny nose, red sore watery eyes and fever,” said Kit Young Hoon, medical officer of health for the Northwestern Health Unit.
“After a few days, people will develop a rash that usually appears on the face and may spread to the rest of the body. This can lead to serious complications including pneumonia, ear infections and blindness, so it is important for people to be aware of the risks.”
Since the fall of 2024, Canada has recorded more than 5,000 measles cases in nine provinces and one territory.
Earlier this year, the Public Health Agency of Canada announced that Canada had lost measles elimination status.
Young Hoon said the person diagnosed in the Kenora area may have exposed people at the emergency department at Lake of the Woods District Hospital and at a program at the Kenora Public Library.
Exposure in the hospital was possible on 22 December, 26 December or 27 December, and in the library on 23 December. More information about dates and times of potential exposure can be found here. Northwest Health Unit website,
“If you develop symptoms and have been exposed, it is important to get tested to see if you may have measles and that may require additional follow-up and follow-up,” Young Hoon said.
He said people who may have been exposed should also review their vaccination records to see if they have received two doses of the measles vaccine, or to determine if they are at risk in other ways.
“If you don’t have two doses, it’s important to focus on getting the second dose if you become infected,” Young Hoon said.
“If you have had an infection or were born before 1970, chances are you have been infected before. Then you are probably immune. But if you think you have never had measles and have not received two doses of the measles vaccine, you will want to contact us and the Northwestern Health Unit for further instructions.”
