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Hamilton Spectator

Hamilton public health investigating measles exposures at restaurant, venue

Hamilton public health is investigating after patrons at a west-end Italian restaurant and downtown entertainment venue were possibly exposed to a confirmed case of measles earlier this month. The public health unit announced the potential exposures in a media release Thursday, noting that they were related to a case of measles in a non-Hamilton resident; however, it's unclear where the person is from. The local exposures come as the province continues to grapple with a growing measles outbreak that began in October and has infected more than 1,600 people since it began. None of those cases have been connected to Hamilton residents as of Thursday. Public health said it has notified and will be following up with 'known identified contacts' who have been exposed to the highly contagious virus, which can easily spread to those who are not fully vaccinated or have not previously been infected. So far, Hamilton public health has only reported two potential exposure sites connected to the case. They are as follows: Infants, pregnant people and those with weakened immune systems are more at risk of severe complications from the virus, noted the public health unit. 'Measles is a serious, vaccine-preventable infection that can cause severe lifelong complications,' said Dr. Bart Harvey, associate medical officer of health, in a statement. Those who were potentially exposed are asked to watch for symptoms for 21 days after an exposure, even if they are up to date with their vaccinations. Symptoms typically last for one to two weeks and may include a high fever, cough, runny nose and small white spots with white centres on the inside of the mouth and throat, as well as a red, blotchy rash. Folks from the community are reminded to check their immunization records to ensure they are up to date on their measles vaccines, either MMR or MMRV. 'Vaccination against measles is highly effective,' said Harvey. 'It is strongly recommended that you and your family are up to date with appropriate measles vaccination.' Two doses are recommended for anyone born in or after 1970, according to the release, while those born before 1970 are considered protected against measles. Those who were born after 1970 and are not fully vaccinated are asked to avoid contact with those most vulnerable to the virus. Contacts who are students or child-care workers with only one dose of the vaccine will be asked to stay home until they are fully vaccinated. Those who were at either exposure site and are not fully vaccinated are asked to call Hamilton public health at 905-546-2424 , ext. 7970, with any questions and concerns. If someone has developed the symptoms of measles, they are asked to stay home and not attend work, school or any other public spaces. They should contact their doctor and, if attending a clinic or hospital, call ahead to ensure precautions are in place.