Manitoba’s chief public health officer says that two cases of measles have been confirmed in the Interlake region.
Officials say that an infant contracted the virus outside the country and a second person contracted it due to close contact with the child.
Measles is a highly infectious, communicable disease that is spread through droplets in the air formed when coughing or sneezing. An infected person can spread the virus from four days before the rash appears to four days after. The disease tends to be more severe in infants and young children and can be life-threatening.
[jaw_quote author=”” ]Measles can lead to complications including ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia (lung infection) and encephalitis (brain inflammation)[/jaw_quote][jaw_clear]
Symptoms of measles generally appear seven to 21 days after exposure. Initial symptoms may include fever, runny nose, drowsiness, irritability and red eyes. Small white spots may also develop on the inside of the mouth or throat.
The province says that everyone who may have been in contact with the ill patients has been identified and will be offered immunization. They will also be asked to limit their contact with others to reduce the possible spread.
Both people who contracted the virus are recovering at home.
© 2018 News 4
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