Health unit warns public of measles exposure after 1 adult case confirmed in London

The Middlesex-London Health Unit is alerting the public about possible measles exposures at various sites throughout London earlier this week, after health officials confirmed an adult acquired the disease while travelling abroad. 

London's vaccination rate is relatively high, hovering between 85 to 90 per cent, said associate medical officer of health Dr. Joanne Kearon. The rate is "still a bit lower than before COVID, but still quite strong."

But there is a chance of secondary cases of people who may have been infected due to exposure to this person, she said.

Community members may have been exposed at the following locations: 

Sunday, March 3

Monday, March 4

Tuesday, March 5

Wednesday, March 6

Thursday, March 8

Kearon advises anyone who could've been exposed to check their immunization records and make sure they're up to date with two doses of the Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) vaccine. 

Symptoms can appear within two to three weeks after exposure, Kearon said, adding they could be vague at the beginning and feel similar to cold-like symptoms, including coughing, a runny nose, fever and sensitivity to light. 

After several days, patients develop a red rash that can last up to a week, she said. 

"Measles is airborne and incredibly infectious," she said. "There's not a lot of protection you can take ahead of time other than to get vaccinated.

"Even if you're not exposed to this case, check your records."