Public Health warns residents of potential measles exposure in the Aylmer area 

Sophie Demers

The Centre intégré de Santé et de Services sociaux de l'Outaouais (CISSSO) public health offices announced on May 2 that two individuals diagnosed with measles in Ottawa visited the Éco des champs farm at 482 chemin Earley near Aylmer on Sunday April 20.

According to CISSSO, the risk of outdoor exposure is low. Both individuals were also present at two locations in Ottawa. The Food Basics at 1021 Cyrville Road on April 21 between 5 and 8 pm as well as the Costco at 1405 Blair Towers Place on April 23 between 6 and 8:45 pm.

There are no confirmed measles cases in the Outaouais region as of publication. CISSSO reminds the public that, although the outbreak in Quebec is over, measles cases can still occur. The organization encourages individuals to take precautions.

CISSSO states that if any individual were at these locations at the time indicated, they should check that they are protected against measles. To be considered protected an individual must have received two doses of the vaccine, one at 1 year and the second at 18 months. People are also considered protected if born before 1970.

Those who are unvaccinated can book an appointment through the clicsante.ca portal.

CISSSO recommends that individuals who may have been in contact with measles monitor their symptoms. Measles symptoms include a fever of 38.8 C, cough, runny nose, or conjunctivitis. Measles can also present itself as red skin starting on the face and spreading to the whole body.