Measles Resurgence in Manitoba: A Growing Concern for Brandon
A second measles exposure at the Brandon Community Sportsplex pool has been reported this month, adding to a growing list of public exposure sites across southern Manitoba. Public health officials are urging residents to be vigilant and aware of potential symptoms as the province grapples with a significant measles outbreak.
Brandon at the Epicenter of the Outbreak
The Brandon Community Sportsplex pool and changing room were identified as exposure locations on both February 1st (1 p.m. To 8 p.m.) and February 4th (11:30 a.m. To 3 p.m.). Individuals who visited during these times are advised to monitor for symptoms until February 23rd and February 26th, respectively. This latest exposure comes on the heels of warnings about potential transmission at several other Brandon locations, including Anytime Fitness, Shoppers Mall, A&L Cycle, Obermaier’s Sausage & Meats Ltd., the Brandon Regional Health Centre’s Westman Regional Laboratory, Booster Juice, and Western Nations Gas Bar.
Widespread Transmission and Rising Case Numbers
The current outbreak has seen 438 confirmed cases and 39 probable cases of measles reported in Manitoba since February 2025. In 2026 alone, 119 cases have been confirmed, with 10 classified as probable. The province has also reported 24 hospitalizations, including 17 children under the age of 10, highlighting the serious health risks associated with the virus.
Ag Days Linked to Measles Cases
Health officials have traced more than 30 measles cases back to Ag Days, a large agricultural event held in Brandon from January 20-22. This underscores the potential for large gatherings to become hotspots for transmission, prompting the province to advise caution regarding future events.
Understanding Measles: Symptoms and Complications
Measles is a highly contagious airborne disease spread through coughing and sneezing. Symptoms typically appear 7-21 days after exposure and initiate with a fever, runny nose, drowsiness, irritability, and red eyes. Small white spots may appear inside the mouth and throat, followed by a red, blotchy rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.
Complications from measles can be severe, including ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, and encephalitis (brain inflammation). Infants under 12 months, pregnant individuals who are not immunized, and those with weakened immune systems are at particularly high risk of severe complications.
Expanded Vaccine Eligibility
In response to the outbreak, Manitoba public health has expanded vaccine eligibility to include infants aged six months to under 12 months in the Prairie Mountain Health region. This proactive measure aims to protect vulnerable infants who are too young to receive the standard measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine at 12 months.
Protecting Yourself and Your Community
Public health officials emphasize the importance of vaccination as the most effective way to prevent measles. Individuals who are unsure of their immunization status should contact their healthcare provider.
FAQ: Measles in Manitoba
- What are the symptoms of measles? Fever, runny nose, drowsiness, irritability, red eyes, and a red, blotchy rash.
- How long after exposure do symptoms appear? 7-21 days.
- Who is most at risk from measles? Infants under 12 months, pregnant individuals who aren’t immunized, and those with weakened immune systems.
- What should I do if I think I’ve been exposed? Monitor for symptoms and contact your healthcare provider.
Pro Tip: If you are planning to attend a large gathering, check with Manitoba Health for any current exposure alerts or recommendations.
Stay informed about the latest updates on the measles outbreak in Manitoba by visiting the Manitoba Government website.
Do you have questions about the measles outbreak? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
