Skip to content

First measles cases in nearly 30 years confirmed in Thunder Bay

The Thunder Bay District Health Unit is urging anyone who may have been exposed to take appropriate precautions.
measles-istock-1196157315
Measles; a woman scratches the upper arm with one hand due to the numerous red pruritus., Measles is a disease that can spread easily.

THUNDER BAY — The first case of measles seen in the city for 28 years was confirmed on Friday.

The individual acquired the infection through international travel, according to a media release issued by Thunder Bay District Health Unit Friday afternoon. 

A public health investigation is unfolding.

The health unit is warning of possible exposure to measles for travellers on the evening of Sunday, May 4.

Anyone on Air Canada Flight AC1195  from Toronto to Thunder Bay, between 9:40  p.m. and 11 p.m., or at the Thunder Bay airport between 11 p.m. and 1:30 a.m. could have been exposed to the virus.

"Measles is a highly contagious disease that can spread easily to others through the air," said the health unit.

Follow up is underway and the health unit will inform the public as information becomes available about any further exposure locations, notably healthcare settings.

The person who is confirmed to have contracted the measles is recovering at home.

The health unit has said it is following up with known contacts, with a focus those who are at a higher risk. 

The risk to the general public is low according to the health unit.

The health unit is advising anyone who may have been exposed on the flight to monitor for symptoms until May 25.

Anyone born in 1970 or later should also check thier vaccination status. To be considered protected, two does of the measles vaccine are needed.

Symptoms can include fever, runny nose, cough and red eyes. Small spots with white centres may appear inside the mouth. A red blotchy rash appears on the face then spreads down the body, 3 to 7 days after symptoms begin.

More information is available on the health unit's measles webpage.



Leigh Nunan

About the Author: Leigh Nunan

Leigh started as managing editor of TBnewswatch in October 2024, after working as a video journalist with TBT News both in Thunder Bay and across the region. She previously worked delivering media training in northwestern Ontario First Nations.
Read more


Comments

push icon
Be the first to read breaking stories. Enable push notifications on your device. Disable anytime.
No thanks