Eleven new measles cases have been confirmed in New Brunswick.
The province says they are in Fredericton and part of the Saint John river valley area, bringing the total number of cases, since October, to 25.
Public Health says there was a potential exposure to a confirmed case in this location:
· Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024: Walmart Supercentre, 125 Two Nations Crossing (Fredericton) between 1:30 p.m. and 3:45 p.m.
New cases continue to be possible while the situation remains fluid.
Other potential cases remain under investigation.
“As the number of cases continues to rise, it is more important than ever for New Brunswickers to ensure they are protected, either through previous infection or vaccine,” says Dr. Mark McKelvie, regional medical officer of health. “Now is the time to take action.”
Horizon Health is planning the following vaccination clinics:
· Fredericton Public Health, 300 St. Mary’s Street, on Friday, Nov. 15 from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
· Western Valley Multiplex in the Centreville district of Carleton North on Wednesday, Nov. 13 and Friday, Nov. 15, from 10 a.m. to 11:45 a.m., and from 1 p.m. to 2:45 p.m.
The measles virus is one of the most contagious infections known, according to provincial health officials.
It is transmitted through the air or by direct contact with nasal or throat secretions of an infected person. Measles can be more severe in adults and infants and can lead to complications.
Symptoms may include fever, cough, sore and/or red eyes, runny nose or tiny white spots in the mouth. Within three to seven days, a red blotchy rash will appear, first on the face and then spreading to the body, arms and legs.
Public Health said most people born in 1970 or later can be protected from measles infection with two doses of vaccine.
While those born before 1970 are generally considered to be protected from measles, people born later who have not received two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine are encouraged to get vaccinated.
-with files from Brad Perry
