New Measles Exposure

Tue, May 06, 2025

 

Algoma Public Health (APH) is investigating an additional exposure to measles in the community related to another confirmed case in Central Algoma. Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads easily through the air, especially in enclosed spaces like buses and terminals. APH is conducting a detailed investigation and taking all necessary measures to prevent further spread of the virus.  

Potential exposure to measles:   

Location	Date and Approximate Time of Exposure
Ontario Northland Bus Trip #1249  Barrie to Sudbury, Ontario	May 2, 2025  12:24 pm to 5:08pm
Ontario Northland Bus Terminal  Sudbury, Ontario	May 2, 2025  5:10 pm to 7:40 pm
Ontario Northland Bus Trip #1501  Sudbury to Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario	May 2, 2025  5:40 pm to 11:25 pm
A&W, Blind River, Ontario	May 2, 2025  8:26 pm to 11:00 pm

Anyone who travelled on any of these trips, and is susceptible to measles, should monitor for symptoms (listed below). If you begin to feel unwell or have questions, please contact your local public health unit for guidance. 

 

Who is at risk? 

 

Most people born before 1970 are considered immune to measles from natural exposure. For those born in 1970 or later, two doses of a measles vaccine are recommended for full protection. People who are vaccinated are very unlikely to get sick or spread measles if exposed. Anyone who is not fully vaccinated and has not had measles disease are considered to be susceptible. 

Those at higher risk of severe illness include infants and children under the age of five, pregnant individuals, people with weakened immune systems, and anyone who has not received the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. 

 

Know the 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 

While many people recover without complications, 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  

If you are concerned you may have measles and are visiting a healthcare provider, please call ahead if possible so appropriate infection control measures can be taken.

Measles is Highly Contagious 

 

“Measles is extremely contagious—it can spread through the air and remain in the environment for up to two hours after an infected person has left,” says Dr. John Tuinema, Acting Medical Officer of Health at Algoma Public Health. “With increased measles activity in Ontario, this case serves as a reminder of how easily the virus can spread.” 

 

Vaccination Rates in Algoma 
 

“The MMR vaccine is safe, effective, and the best way to protect against measles,” adds Dr. Tuinema. “In the 2023–2024 school year, 86.6% of seven-year-olds and 96.5% of 17-year-olds in Algoma were fully immunized.” 

 

What You Can Do 

 

• Check your vaccination status and make sure you and your family’s immunizations are up to date 
• 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. 
• If you think you may have been exposed to measles, contact your healthcare provider or APH at 705-942-4646 or TF 866-892-0172.   
• For information on measles exposure locations in Ontario, please see Public Health Ontario’s information page.

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