Measles outbreak in capital, up-river areas

Two more cases confirmed, says Public Health, and two people hospitalized in Fredericton

Public Health in the province Friday declared an outbreak of measles in Zone 3, which includes the Fredericton region and the upper Saint John River valley.

With two more cases being confirmed since Thursday, the total of confirmed cases in New Brunswick has reached five since the first case was detected last week, the province said in a news release Friday afternoon.

“Two people are hospitalized at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital. Precautions have been taken and there is no known risk of exposure to the public,” it said.

A rash associated with a measles infection is pictured. Public Health in New Brunswick has declared an outbreak in Zone 3 of the province. (Photo: Mayo Clinic)

Other potential cases of measles are being investigated, Public Health said.

“The situation is evolving rapidly,” regional medical officer of health Dr. Mark McKelvie said in the release.

“Measles is highly contagious. It can be severe in adults and infants, and can cause serious complications. With the number of cases growing – and expected to continue growing – now is the time to get vaccinated if you are not protected through previous exposure or vaccine.”

However, the doctor said for people who are vaccinated or otherwise protected, the risk is low.

“Public Health continues to monitor contacts and notify people of potential exposure as it becomes aware,” McKelvie said. 

“In the meantime, New Brunswickers can do their part to limit the spread of this outbreak by ensuring they are protected against measles.”

Most people born in 1970 or later can be protected from measles infection with two doses of vaccine, the release said, and McKelvie noted the vaccine has been in use for more than 50 years and is safe and highly effective at preventing infections.

“Those who are unsure of their vaccination status, or that of their children, are urged to contact their health-care provider or local Public Health office,” the release said.

The Horizon Health Network conducted vaccination clinics in Centreville and Stanley on Friday, and it will hold another at the Western Valley Multiplex in the Centreville district of Carleton North on Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:15 p.m.

One can book an appointment at the clinic through the provincial scheduler.

The vaccine that protects against measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMRV) is for babies aged 12 and 18 months, the release said, while those born before 1970 are generally considered to be protected from measles.

However, people born later who have not received two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine should get vaccinated.

“People experiencing symptoms consistent with measles should isolate and contact Tele-Care 811 by telephone and follow the operator’s instructions,” it said. 

“They should not go to an emergency room, doctor’s office or clinic. Anyone who is seriously ill and needs to go to the emergency room should call ahead to reduce the risk of spreading the disease.”

Public Health emphasized that measles is one of the most contagious viruses known to man, noting it’s transmitted through the air or by direct contact with nasal or throat secretions of an infected person. 

“Measles can be more severe in adults and infants and can lead to complications,” the release said.

“Symptoms of measles may include fever, cough, sore and/or red eyes, runny nose or tiny white spots in the mouth. Within three to seven days, a red blotchy rash will appear, first on the face and then spreading to the body, arms and legs.”

Additional information on measles and immunization is available online.

The Fredericton Independent can be reached at ftonindependent@gmail.com.