Two more measles cases detected in N.B.

Horizon Health Network hosting vaccination clinics in Centreville and Stanley due to spread

In the wake of last week’s warning about a confirmed case of measles in the province, Public Health announced Thursday that two more cases of measles have been detected.

“Since notifying the public of a confirmed case on Oct. 24, Public Health has identified two subsequent confirmed cases and is investigating other potential cases,” said a government news release issued Thursday afternoon.

“All of these involve people in the initial patient’s close contact network in the upper Saint John River valley.”

Two more cases of measles have been confirmed in New Brunswick, says Public Health, with other potential cases being investigated. (Photo: iStock)

Public Health didn’t specify the locations of the newly detected cases.

Consequently, the Horizon Health Network is holding a vaccination clinic at the Western Valley Multiplex in the Centreville district of Carleton North on Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. and Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:15 p.m.

The health authority is also setting up another vaccination clinic at the Stanley Health Centre on Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

Those who feel they should get the vaccine are asked to book appointments through the provincial scheduler or by calling Tele-Services at 1-833-437-1424, which is available Monday to Friday, 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., the release said.

The vaccines at the clinics are free of charge, Public Health said.

The original case about which the public was alerted last week came in on a flight from Toronto to Fredericton on Oct. 17, so there was exposure at the Fredericton International Airport that afternoon.

The same case led to further potential exposures at the Upper River Valley Hospital in Waterville, near Woodstock, the night of Oct. 18 and the late afternoon and early evening of Oct. 20.

“It is concerning that the virus has spread to two close contacts of the first case,” Dr. Mark McKelvie, regional medical officer of health, said in the release. 

“Public Health continues to monitor contacts and notify people of potential exposure as it becomes aware. However, if the spread continues to progress, it is possible that Public Health will not be able to identify everyone who has been exposed.”

The agency advised that most people born in 1970 or later can be protected from measles infection with two doses of vaccine. 

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

The measles vaccine has been in use for more than 50 years, McKelvie said, and it’s safe and effective at preventing infections. 

People who are unsure of their vaccination status or their children’s are advised to contact their health-care providers or local Public Health office.

The Upper River Valley Hospital in Waterville was identified as a potential site of measles exposures Oct. 18 and 20. (Photo: Horizon Health website)

“Given how quickly measles can spread, and given the number of persons now potentially implicated, it is important to take action before this spreads further,” said McKelvie. 

“If you are not protected through previous exposure or vaccine, then now is the time to get vaccinated. For those who are already protected from measles, the risk remains low. For those who are not yet protected, the risk is unfortunately increased and may change further.”

The measles virus is one of the most highly contagious infections, and it’s transmitted through the air or by direct contact with nasal or throat secretions of an infected person, the release said, noting it can be more severe in adults and infants and can lead to complications.

“Symptoms of measles may include fever, cough, sore and/or red eyes, runny nose or tiny white spots in the mouth,” it said.

“Within three to seven days, a red blotchy rash will appear, first on the face and then spreading to the body, arms and legs.”

Those experiencing such symptoms should isolate and contact Tele-Care 811 by telephone and follow the instructions provided. 

“They should not go to an emergency room, doctor’s office or clinic,” the release said.

“Anyone who is seriously ill and needs to go to the emergency room should call ahead to help reduce the risk of spreading the disease.”

More information on measles and immunization is available online.

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