After a recent measles case was confirmed in Saskatoon, doctors are reminding residents in the province how to protect themselves from the virus.
The highly contagious virus can cause very serious symptoms, including ear infections, pneumonia, brain infections, or death.
Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) Southwest Medical Health Officer Dr. David Toll said while measles is not common in the province, it’s still important to practice preventive measures.
“Saskatchewan and Canada as a whole have had good immunization rates for many years and have been able to really prevent the virus from persisting in the environment,” he said. “In a case like this, someone comes into the country with the virus from abroad and brings the infection with them. But it’s difficult for that infection to spread.”
The most effective action to avoid contracting the virus is to stay vaccinated. Dr. Toll emphasized this to all individuals planning out-of-state or international travel, especially with children.
Symptoms of measles include high fever, white spots inside the mouth, a severe patchy rash, red eyes, cough, fatigue, irritability, and runny nose.
People who were in the following locations in Saskatoon during these times should monitor for measles symptoms:
Sunday, January 7, 2024, 3:30pm – 7:00pm
- Reitman’s, Stonebridge 3011 Clarence Avenue S
- Stonebridge Drarama 3011 Clarence Avenue S
- Stonebridge Walmart 3035 Clarence Avenue S
Tuesday, January 9, 2024, 1:30pm – 4:30pm
- 1st Floor Arts Building Cafe, 9 Campus Drive (University of Saskatchewan)
Tuesday, January 16th, 7:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
- Royal University Hospital Adult Emergency Waiting Room
SHA has many resources. hand hygiene and measure When to keep children at home From school.
