Public health officials in York Region have issued an alert regarding potential measles exposure at four specific locations over the past week. According to York Region Public Health, an individual confirmed to have measles visited these locations, raising concerns for those who may have been present during those times.

The identified locations and dates of potential exposure are as follows:

• July 27: Costco Richmond Hill, located at 35 John Birchall Road, from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m.
• July 28: Grand Genesis Pharmasave at 9080 Yonge Street, Unit 6A, from 4:30 to 7 p.m.
• July 30: Emergency and Waiting Room at Mackenzie Richmond Hill Hospital, 10 Trench Street, between 3:30 and 6:30 p.m.
• July 31: Emergency Department, Pharmacy, and Tim Hortons at Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital, located at 3200 Major Mackenzie Drive West, between 9:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Health officials are urging anyone who may have been in these locations during the stated times to monitor for potential symptoms, which typically appear between seven to 21 days after exposure. Symptoms of measles often begin with fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. These early symptoms are usually followed by a red blotchy rash that starts on the face and spreads to the body and limbs.

In a statement, public health officials emphasized, “Anyone who may have been exposed at Mackenzie Richmond Hill Hospital Emergency Room Waiting Room or Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital Emergency Department, Pharmacy, Tim Hortons should immediately confirm they have two doses of the measles vaccine.” This advice is particularly important for individuals who were present in close proximity to the confirmed measles case.

Furthermore, anyone who was in these locations and is with an infant under six months of age, or who is immunocompromised, is advised to contact York Region Public Health without delay, as they may qualify for preventive treatment against the virus.

Measles is known to be a highly contagious virus that can spread easily through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, sneezes, or talks. The virus has the potential to remain airborne or linger on surfaces for up to two hours, posing a risk to those who breathe in contaminated air or touch infected surfaces, followed by touching their eyes, nose, or mouth.

The outbreak in York Region has been significant, with three confirmed cases of measles reported locally. Additionally, Public Health Ontario has documented over 2,300 confirmed cases across Ontario since the outbreak began in October of the previous year.

In light of these developments, public health officials stress the importance of vaccination and awareness, as the consequences of measles infection can be severe, leading to complications such as pneumonia, inflammation of the brain, and even death.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed and take precautions to protect themselves and their communities from this highly contagious virus.