Due to the active circulation of measles and the confirmation of a few cases in the Laurentians, the Public Health Department of the Integrated Health and Social Services Center (CISSS) of the Laurentides invites the population to be extra cautious and to follow recommendations to limit the transmission of the disease in order to protect the most vulnerable.
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that can cause serious complications, particularly in children under the age of one, pregnant women and people with a weakened immune system. It is possible to be infected and catch the disease without having been in direct contact with a person with measles. It may be enough to have been in the same room as a contagious person, even for a short period of time.
Preventive measures to limit the transmission of measles
Certain places of exposure to measles have been identified in the Laurentians and are available for consultation on Québec.ca/rougeole. If you have visited these places, you must check your protection status by consulting the “Persons considered protected” section on Québec.ca/rougeole or by calling 1 877 644-4545. If you are not protected against measles, it is recommended that you isolate yourself.
Furthermore, if you are a vulnerable person (baby under one year old, pregnant woman, immunosuppressed person), contact Info-Santé at 811. Preventive treatment could be offered to reduce the risk of complications of the disease. As a precaution, it is advisable to watch for the following symptoms: fever, nasal congestion with runny nose, cough, conjunctivitis (red, runny eyes), sensitivity to light and general malaise. Subsequently, redness appears on the face and then on the body.
In the event of symptoms, the Public Health Department reminds that it is important to isolate yourself and avoid contact with other people. If travel for a medical consultation is necessary, it is strongly recommended to:
-Wear a mask;
--Avoid using public transportation;
-Contact the medical clinic or any other care and service environment before traveling to inform them of your condition. If this is not possible, it is essential to inform reception staff upon arrival.
Vaccination: the best protection against measles
Vaccination remains the most effective means of prevention against measles. In Quebec, according to the regular vaccination schedule, children receive the measles vaccine at 12 and 18 months. However, vaccination is offered free of charge to anyone born after 1970 who has never received the measles vaccine or who has never had this disease. People born before 1970 are considered protected against measles.
Making an appointment to obtain the measles vaccine is available at www.clicsante.ca or by telephone at 1 877 644-4545, Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
