Confirmed case of measles in Hamilton area child: public health

This undated image made available by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Feb. 4, 2015 shows an electron microscope image of a measles virus particle, center. (Cynthia Goldsmith/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention via AP)

The City of Hamilton says it is investigating a confirmed case of measles.

Hamilton Public Health (HPH) says the confirmed case is tied to a Hamilton area child and they are investigating several local exposures.

Measles exposure may have occurred at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Elementary School at 181 Belmont Avenue, near Cannon Street East, between Feb. 4 and Feb. 7 from 9 a.m. to 6:10 p.m. on each day.

Exposure could have also taken place at the McMaster Children’s Hospital Emergency Department at 1200 Main Street West near University Avenue on Feb. 10 from 11:59 a.m. to 12:29 p.m.

HPH says they have notified and are following up directly with identified contacts who may have been exposed to the virus.

Anyone who may have been exposed should watch for measles symptoms for 21 days after exposure, according to HPH, even if your measles vaccinations are up to date.

Symptoms include a high fever of 38.8 C or higher, a red and blotchy rash, cough, runny nose, and red and watery eyes.

HPH advises anyone who develops symptoms should stay home and not attend work, school, childcare, or any other public spaces.

Public Health Ontario (PHO) says a total of 57 confirmed and six probable cases of measles have been reported in the province so far this year as of Feb. 12.

Outbreak cases have occurred in four public health units, according to PHO, including Southwestern Public Health, Grey Bruce Health Unit, Grand Erie Public Health, and Chatham-Kent Public Health.