Winnipeg woman contracted measles while travelling in Africa
Manitoba health officials have confirmed the second "travel-related" case of measles in the province in recent months, with this case involving a Winnipeg woman who contracted the virus in Africa.
The woman, who is in her 30s, is recovering at home. Manitoba Health says she contracted the virus while travelling in southern Africa.
Dr. Richard Rusk, medical lead of communicable diseases with Manitoba Health, said the patient had limited contact with people after her trip, but officials are still on the lookout for anyone who may have been exposed to the virus.
"We feel that we have contacted all those that are susceptible or potentially susceptible to measles, but there's always the potential that we may have missed somebody," Rusk told reporters Friday in Winnipeg.
Rusk said people who were at these locations at the following times may have been exposed:
- Dakota Walk-In Clinic — April 12 at 9 a.m.
- Victoria General Hospital emergency room — April 13, from about 6:40 a.m. to 11:40 a.m.
- Victoria General Hospital emergency room waiting room — April 14, from 4:19 p.m. to 4:41 p.m.
"Measles is a highly contagious disease and as she was in the infective stage here in Winnipeg … that's part of the reason why we would want people to be aware," he said.
Anyone who thinks they might have measles or have been in close contact with someone who has been diagnosed with measles should call their health-care provider or Health Links-Info Santé at 204-788-8200 or 1-888-315-9257 (toll-free).
In February, health officials said an 11-month-old girl from Winnipeg contracted measles following a family trip to India.
Measles can cause a rash, runny nose and cough, as well as more serious complications such as deafness and brain damage.
