Algoma Public Health
Measles
On this page:
- Exposure sites in Algoma
- What is measles
- Vaccination
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- News Releases
Exposure Sites in Algoma
To view exposure sites across Ontario, visit Public Health Ontario: Measles Exposure in Ontario
What is measles?
Measles is a respiratory infection that is highly contagious. Individuals with measles spread the virus by coughing or sneezing into the air. It can also be transmitted by touching your eyes, nose, or mouth after touching an infected surface. Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, red watery eyes, and a red blotchy rash.
- A highly infectious communicable disease caused by the measles virus.
- Complications include diarrhea, pneumonia, blindness, and infections of the brain.
- Pregnant women, infants and individuals with weak immune systems are at higher risk of measles complications.
How is it spread?
Measles spreads when:
- You breathe air where an infected person has coughed or sneezed
- You touch a surface with the virus on it and then touch your eyes, nose, or mouth
- The virus can live in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours
- You can spread measles to others four days before the rash starts and for four days after the rash starts
People are considered protected if they have at least one of the following:
- Proof of vaccination with two valid doses of measles-containing vaccine (e.g., MMR vaccine)
- Blood work showing antibodies to measles
- Documentation of prior laboratory-confirmed measles infection
- Born before 1970
Who is at risk?
- Infants under 12 months of age
- Immunocompromised individuals
- Individuals born after January 1, 1970, and who are not vaccinated with two doses of an MMR or MMRV vaccine, or haven’t had measles in the past
Symptoms
Measles symptoms usually begin 7 to 12 days (but can take up to 21 days) after exposure to the virus. They include the following:
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- Cough
- Fever
- 3-5 days later: a red, blotchy rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body
Measles can sometimes cause serious health issues such as:
- Ear or brain infections
- Pneumonia (lung infection)
- Vision or hearing loss
- Premature birth (for those who are pregnant)
- In very rare cases, death
What to do if you are exposed to measles?
Regardless of immunization status, you should monitor for signs and symptoms of measles for 21 days after your last exposure. If you are considered at risk (infants under 12 months, pregnant, immunocompromised, or unimmunized), you will be asked to self-isolate for 21 days from your last exposure.
If you need to seek medical care, it is best to call ahead and advise of your exposure to measles so that appropriate precautions are put in place.
How long is it contagious?
Usually 4 days before, to 4 days after the onset of rash. Persons with weak immune systems may be contagious for the duration of their illness.
How is measles diagnosed?
Measles is diagnosed through laboratory tests. These tests may include:
- A swab of your nose or throat (nasopharyngeal or throat swab)
- A urine sample
- A blood test
How is it treated?
There is no specific treatment. Drink plenty of fluids, get lots of rest, and seek medical attention if symptoms are not manageable at home.
Vaccination
The best way to protect against measles is vaccination. Two doses of measles-containing vaccine (MMR and/or MMRV) is 99 per cent effective in preventing a measles infection.
The measles vaccine is a publicly funded, routine childhood vaccine in Ontario. Check your immunization records or ask your healthcare provider to confirm your vaccinations.
To check your measles vaccination status, contact your healthcare provider or visit: algomapublichealth.com/icon or call 705-942-4646, ext. 3535.
If you have questions about measles immunization, call APH at 705-759-5409.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
News Releases
April 24, 2025: Measles case confirmed in the Algoma district
May 6, 2025: New measles exposure
Contact Us!
Sault Ste. Marie: 705-942-4646
Blind River: 705-356-2551
Elliot Lake: 705-848-2314
Wawa: 705-856-7208
Last Modified: May 9, 2025