Fifth measles case revealed

Toronto Public Health says more expected

A thin-section transmission electron micrograph of the measles virus.

The latest Torontonian infected in the city’s recent measles outbreak was fully vaccinated against the disease. This is the fifth case of measles in Toronto — and more can be expected.

Toronto Public Health confirmed four cases of measles in Toronto on Monday: two children and two adults. One of the original four infected had received partial vaccination, the other three had not.

Officials reported that those infected were from different families and had no known ties, indicating that at least one more case can be expected in Toronto. The source case has not been identified.

TPH officials stated, “the risk to the general public is low”, but advised Torontonians to take the following measures to protect themselves from infection:

  • Check your immunization record to make sure you and family members are up to date with the measles vaccination (MMR or MMRV). If you are unsure, please check with your health care provider. Those born before 1970 are considered protected against measles.
  • If you are travelling, ensure your immunizations are up to date before you leave, including family members travelling with you. This is very important if you are planning to travel to the United States, which is currently experiencing outbreaks of measles in several states.
  • Watch for symptoms of measles. These include a high fever, cold-like symptoms (cough/runny nose), sore eyes or sensitivity to light and a red rash lasting four to seven days.

People with weakened immune systems are most vulnerable to measles, these include pregnant women, infants, and the elderly.

About this article

By: Daniel Goldsmith
Copy editor: Xue Bo
Posted: Feb 7 2015 12:30 pm
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Filed under: News Science & Health
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