Measles Exposure Alerts Issued in Manitoba: What You Necessitate to Realize
Manitoba public health officials have recently issued alerts regarding potential measles exposure at three locations within the province. These exposures occurred between February 28th and March 1st, 2026, prompting a reminder to residents about the importance of immunization and awareness of symptoms.
Recent Exposure Locations
The identified locations include:
- Neepawa Health Centre emergency department waiting area (500 Hospital St., Neepawa) – February 28th, 4 p.m. To 7 p.m.
- The Apartments at The Gardens on Tenth common area (235 Fifth St. NE, Altona) – March 1st, 9:30 a.m. To 1:30 p.m.
- Altona Sommerfeld Mennonite Church (62 10th Ave. NE, Altona) – March 1st, 10:30 a.m. To 1:30 p.m.
Individuals who were present at these locations during the specified times are urged to check their immunization records.
Who is at Risk?
Those not immunized against measles are potentially eligible for preventative treatment if they were exposed within the past six days. Public health officials recommend contacting a health-care provider. Individuals born in 1970 or later who have never received a measles vaccine and have never had a measles infection are specifically advised to consider vaccination.
Pro Tip: Don’t rely on memory! Locate your immunization records to confirm your vaccination status.
Understanding Measles and its Symptoms
Measles is a highly contagious disease spread through coughing and sneezing. An infected person can spread the virus for four days before and after the rash appears. Symptoms typically develop seven to 21 days after exposure and include fever, runny nose, drowsiness, irritability, red eyes, and tiny white spots inside the mouth or throat. A red, blotchy rash usually follows, starting on the face and spreading down the body.
Complications from measles can be serious, including ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, and encephalitis (brain inflammation). It tends to be more severe in infants and young children.
What to Do If You Suspect Exposure
If you develop symptoms after potential exposure, isolate yourself at home and contact your health-care provider, informing them of the possible measles exposure. Household members who are unimmunized should also limit their exposure to others until the symptomatic person receives medical advice. Calling ahead to health-care facilities is recommended to allow staff to take necessary precautions.
Vaccination: Your Best Defense
Immunization remains the most effective way to protect against measles. Manitoba’s routine vaccination program provides two doses of the MMRV vaccine – one at age one and another between four and six years. In cases of exposure, a second dose may be administered earlier than usual, and there is outbreak eligibility for some children aged six months to under 12 months.
Vaccines are available through primary care providers, public health offices, Access Centres, and Connected Care Clinics. Appointments can also be booked online at www.medinav.ca.
Staying Informed
Manitoba Health updates the number of measles cases online every Friday. For more information, visit https://gov.mb.ca/health/publichealth/diseases/measles-exposures.html or contact Health Links-Info Santé at 204-788-8200 (Winnipeg) or 1-888-315-9257 (toll-free in Manitoba).
FAQ
Q: What if I’m not sure if I’ve been vaccinated?
A: Contact your local public health office, physician, nurse practitioner, or pharmacist to check your immunization records.
Q: Are there people who shouldn’t secure the measles vaccine?
A: Yes. Infants under six months, pregnant people, and individuals with weakened immune systems should not receive the vaccine and should consult their health-care provider.
Q: How long am I contagious if I have measles?
A: You are contagious from four days before the rash appears until four days after.
Q: Where can I find a complete list of measles exposure locations in Manitoba?
A: Visit https://gov.mb.ca/health/publichealth/diseases/measles-exposures.html.
Did you know? Measles was declared eliminated in Canada in 1998, but cases continue to occur due to imported infections.
Stay vigilant, check your immunization status, and prioritize your health. Share this information with your family and friends to help protect our community.
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