Urgent Alert: Measles Exposure Reported at Chatham Emergency Department!

In a startling public health announcement, CK Public Health has confirmed a new case of measles exposure at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Emergency Department, located at 80 Grand Ave. W., Chatham. This alarming incident occurred on Saturday, March 29, 2025, between the hours of 9:40 p.m. and 11:50 p.m.

Authorities are urging anyone who visited the emergency department during this critical window and is not current on their vaccinations to take immediate action. If you find yourself in this category, you are advised to contact CK Public Health at 519-352-7270 ext: 5902. It is essential that you inform them about your exposure if you begin to exhibit symptoms related to measles, as this allows healthcare providers to facilitate appropriate care while minimizing risks to others.

The symptoms of measles are flu-like and can initially include a fever, runny nose, cough, drowsiness, irritability, and red eyes. A distinctive red rash typically appears 3 to 7 days after the initial onset of these symptoms, beginning on the face before spreading down the body.

With the current climate surrounding public health, the local health unit is stressing the importance of being up-to-date with vaccinations. 'While the majority of individuals are vaccinated against measles, giving them critical protection against the disease, the recent exposure highlights that vigilance is necessary to keep the broader community safe,' CK Public Health stated in an official communication.

Furthermore, it’s worth noting that this recent alert comes on the heels of a troubling assertion from the acting medical officer of health in CK, who revealed that there have been over 40 reported cases of measles in the municipality just last week.

If you haven’t evaluated your vaccination status or that of your family, now is the time to take action. Protect yourself and your loved ones, and help stave off any further spread of this highly contagious illness!