The outbreak of measles, a highly contagious infectious disease caused by a virus, continues to spread in the greater Montreal area, with an 11th case reported, the Ministry of Health and Social Services announced this Sunday, January 12. It is therefore in your best interest to check if you have frequented these places for your health as well as that of your loved ones.
Indeed, the government of Quebec launched an appeal to the population due to the active circulation of this pathology which was nevertheless considered to be eradicated since 1998 in Canada. Moreover, several exposure environments identified in the Laurentides, Laval, Montreal and Montérégie regions.
What you need to know: Since December 2024, a new measles outbreak has been declared across the province, and it is still ongoing with one new confirmed case.
“This last case notably frequented the interior corridors of CF Carrefour Laval during its period of contagiousness as well as the Renaud-Bray of the same establishment on January 7. Thus, thousands of people may have been exposed to measles,” we read in the ministry’s press release.
In total, 50 other exhibition locations have been identified – you can consult the complete list on the Quebec government website.
If you have frequented these places, it is essential to check your protection status by consulting the “People considered protected” section on the site or by calling 1-877-644-4545.
In case you didn’t know: Like COVID-19, measles is an extremely contagious virus that can be caught by breathing the same air from an infected person, even at a distance of more than two meters (six feet).
-“If an unprotected person is in contact with a sick person, the risk of catching measles is nine out of 10,” warned the Montreal Regional Public Health Department.
Here are the most common symptoms of this infection:
- fever ;
- cough ;
- congestion nasale ;
- conjunctivitis (red, runny eyes);
- eyes sensitive to light;
- general malaise;
- pimples or redness on the skin.
Complications can also occur, such as ear infections, pneumonia, or loss of vision or hearing. There is no specific treatment for measles.
People who may have been in close proximity to a contagious person can call Info-Santé 811 to see if they can receive preventive treatment, which consists of an antibody injection. This protection can be given within seven days following contact, especially for people considered at risk.
For those who wish to receive the measles vaccine, it is possible to make an appointment on the Clic Santé website or by telephone at 1-877-644-4545. It is offered to people aged six months and over who are not adequately protected against measles or who have been in contact with a contagious person. In addition to preventive treatment, it can be effective in preventing illness within 72 hours of contact.
