Public Health declared a measles outbreak in Zone 3, which includes the Fredericton and Upper St. John Valley region, on Friday.
Two more cases have been confirmed since Thursday, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the province since October 24 to five. Other possible cases are under investigation, the provincial government said.
Two people are hospitalized at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital. Precautionary measures have been put in place and the government assures that there is no known risk of exposure in this establishment.
“The situation is evolving rapidly,” said regional medical officer of health Dr. Mark McKelvie. Measles is highly contagious. It can be serious in adults and infants, and it can also cause serious complications. As the number of cases is increasing and is expected to continue to increase, now is the time to get vaccinated if you are not protected through previous exposure or the vaccine.”
Dr McKelvie said the risk of infection is low for people who are protected.
Symptoms of measles may include fever, cough, eye pain or red eyes, runny nose, or tiny white spots in the mouth. Three to seven days later, a rash with red spots will appear, first on the face, then on the trunk, arms and legs.
People who have symptoms similar to measles should self-isolate, call Tele-Care 811 and follow the instructions given to them. They should avoid going to an emergency room, doctor’s office or clinic. Anyone who is seriously ill and needs to go to an emergency room should first contact emergency officials to help reduce the risk of disease transmission.
Health
