Measles

Transmission

The measles virus spreads easily in the air when an infected person coughs, talks, or sneezes, and then another person breathes in the virus particles in the air even up to 2 hours after the person with the infection has left a closed space.

It can also be spread by direct contact with the secretions from the infected person’s mouth or nose. People infected with measles can spread it to others 4 days before they get a rash. It can spread for about 4 days after the rash is gone.

 

Symptoms

Symptoms of measles may appear 7 to 21 days after exposure and can include a fever, runny nose, cough, drowsiness, irritability, and red eyes. A red rash appears on the face 3-7 days after the start of the above symptoms. The rash may start from the face and progress down the body.

If you or a family member are showing signs and symptoms of measles, it is important to:

  • Isolate immediately by staying home and avoiding contact with others.
  • Call before visiting a clinic or hospital so they can prepare for your arrival and prevent the virus from spreading.
  • Wear a well-fitting, high-quality mask when seeking medical assessment.

Your healthcare provider will assess you for measles and will test you if they suspect you have measles.

Learn more about measles HERE.

 

Referring a Patient

For post-exposure prophylaxis immunoglobulin (IVIg and IMIg)

  • Referrals faxed to Medical Day Care at the MET campus 519-985-2668
  • Call and confirm fax received Phone Call 519-254-557 Extension 55543 OR Extension 55541

WRH Medical Day Care, Metropolitan Campus
Located on the fourth floor
1995 Lens Ave, Windsor ON
N8W 1L9

Hours of Operation

  • Monday-Friday 7-1900 Scheduled appointments
  • Saturday/Sunday MDC 8-12 pm Scheduled appointments as required
Referral Form

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Who is most at risk of getting the measles?

Anyone who has not had measles or has not been vaccinated against measles and non-immune pregnant people can become sick. Please contact your healthcare provider to confirm whether you are immune to measles.

Who is most at risk?

Infants less than 12 months of age, pregnant people and immune-compromised individuals who have been exposed to measles should consult with their healthcare provider for individual medical advice. For more information on the measles virus. Learn more here.

What services are available for individuals who do not speak English?

A telephone interpretation service called Interpretalk is available for patients who do not speak English. It offers an instant interpretation in 170 languages.

If I am informed I am positive what should I do?

There is no specific treatment for measles. Treatments are given to help relieve the symptoms of measles (e.g., pain relievers to reduce fever). Severe measles infections are often treated in hospitals. 

Most people can recover at home by drinking plenty of fluids, eating healthy foods, and getting lots of rest. Doctors may give Vitamin A to some children with measles.

A person who has measles is advised to stay home, and is not to attend day care, school, or work since measles is very contagious.