Two new cases of measles linked to the ongoing outbreak in Quebec

A new measles outbreak has been declared in Quebec, as two more cases have just been confirmed.

That brings the total to five cases linked to this outbreak, which occurred at a pediatric centre in Saint-Eustache.

People who visited the UP pediatric emergency centre in Saint-Eustache on Nov. 28 between 3:30 p.m. and 8:10 p.m. are asked to monitor their symptoms until Dec. 19, as they may have been exposed to measles.

The main symptoms of the disease are high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, light-sensitive eyes. Those affected will usually develop a rash on their face and then on their body.

Those at risk of complications are babies under one year of age, people whose immune systems are weakened by treatment for another disease, and pregnant women who are not vaccinated against measles.

About one in 10 people requires hospital treatment.

Complications can arise after contracting the disease, including ear infections, pneumonia, persistent diarrhea (especially in infants), loss of sight or hearing, permanent brain damage, and, in one in 3,000 cases, death.

Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself against measles.

In Quebec, the vaccination schedule calls for babies to receive one dose of the vaccine at 12 months and a second dose at 18 months. However, the vaccine is available to everyone free of charge, regardless of age. It is possible to get vaccinated against measles even without a health insurance card. To make an appointment, people can visit clicsante.ca or call their healthcare professional.

During the last outbreak in Quebec, which ended in April, the population was relatively spared compared to other Canadian provinces. Quebec reported 36 cases during this outbreak, while Alberta and Ontario exceeded 2,000 cases.

The Canadian Press’s health coverage is supported by a partnership with the Canadian Medical Association. The Canadian Press is solely responsible for this journalistic content.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published in French on Dec.