Urgent Warning: New Measles Exposure Sites Identified as Cases Surge in Windsor-Essex Region!

The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) has issued an alarming notice to the community regarding potential measles exposure locations, following a concerning rise in confirmed cases. With 30 cases reported this month alone, health officials are keen to ensure that residents remain vigilant.

The possible exposure to the highly contagious virus occurred between March 21 and March 26 at several locations. Parents should take special note: Queen Elizabeth Elementary School in Leamington was identified as a site on both Friday, March 21, and Tuesday, March 25. If your child attended school on those dates, monitoring for symptoms is crucial.

Further exposure points include the TMC Kingsville Walk-in Clinic, located on Main Street East, on Wednesday, March 26. In addition, the Essex County Nurse Practitioner Lead Clinic and Erie Shores HealthCare, both situated on Main Street East and Talbot Street West, respectively, were also flagged as potential risk areas during the same day.

WECHU urges anyone who visited these locations during the specified times to keep a close eye on their health for symptoms of measles, which can appear 7 to 21 days post-exposure. Early symptoms often include high fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes, followed by a distinctive rash.

This month’s surge in cases marks a significant increase from just two confirmed cases in February, raising alarm among public health officials. As measles is highly infectious, the health unit emphasizes the importance of vaccination and encourages those who are unvaccinated or unsure of their immunity status to seek medical advice.

The health unit is committed to providing updates as the situation evolves. Residents are reminded to stay informed and protect themselves and their families from this dangerous illness.