Urgent Measles Exposure Alert at St. Thomas-Elgin General Hospital: What You Need to Know!

In a critical health alert, Southwestern Public Health (SWPH) announced Tuesday that there have been two recent measles exposure incidents at St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital. The exposures occurred in the Emergency Department on March 17 from 6:47 a.m. to 10:16 a.m. and again on March 19 between 7:40 a.m. and 11:40 a.m.

If you visited the Emergency Department during these times and were born in 1970 or later, it is crucial to contact public health at 1-800-922-0096, especially if you're not fully vaccinated. Measles is extremely contagious; in fact, it can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left the area, meaning even brief visits could pose a risk.

For detailed guidance on what actions to take if you've been exposed, visit the SWPH website, where you can also access a comprehensive list of recent measles exposure locations, vaccination advice, and a Measles Exposure Risk Assessment tool. This tool can help you determine your risk level based on your recent activities.

So, what makes measles such a formidable foe? This disease is not only highly infectious but also carries the potential for serious health complications. These can include diarrhea, ear infections, and pneumonia. In rare cases, measles can lead to severe brain infections and even fatalities.

Stay vigilant and ensure your vaccinations are current! The measles vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect yourself and your loved ones from this severe disease. Don’t risk your health—check your immunization status today!