A potential measles exposure has been reported at Bethel Pentecostal Church in Sarnia, located at 1565 London Line. According to Lambton Public Health (LPH), the exposure may have occurred during an event held at the church between 7:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. on March 21.
The case is not connected to either of the previously reported, laboratory-confirmed cases in the region, LPH confirmed in a public notice.
Health officials are currently working to identify known contacts who may have been exposed and are asking specific groups to call Lambton Public Health at 519-383-8331 if they were at the church during that time:
Individuals with severely weakened immune systems
Pregnant individuals who are not protected against measles
Anyone born in or after 1970 who is unvaccinated or has only received one dose of the measles vaccine
LPH will assess eligibility for post-exposure treatment and provide guidance based on individual circumstances.
All exposed contacts are being advised to monitor for symptoms for up to 21 days after exposure, with symptoms typically appearing within 7 to 12 days. Measles symptoms include fever, red blotchy rash, red watery eyes, and small white spots in the mouth known as Koplik spots.
Anyone who develops symptoms is urged to self-isolate immediately and avoid public spaces, including work, school, childcare centres, or public transportation. Those needing medical attention are asked to call ahead to their health care provider or any facility before arriving, to allow staff to take proper precautions.
Measles is a highly contagious airborne virus that can remain active in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left the area. LPH is reminding the public to check their immunization status and ensure vaccinations are up to date.
More information is available at lambtonpublichealth.ca.
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