You are probably hearing a lot of news about measles recently. Do you have questions?
Here’s some important information, and you can also find more on the Ottawa Public Health website.
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease that spreads through close contact.
Protect yourself and others!
Wear a mask in crowded public spaces, or if you are sick
Wash your hands often
Cough/sneeze into your elbow
Stay at home and away from others if you are not feeling well
Symptoms appear within 7-21 days of exposure, and include:
Early symptoms: Fever, cough, stuffy/runny nose, conjunctivitis (pink eye), drowsiness/irritability in infants, possible small white spots in the mouth
Rash: Usually appears on day 3-7 of illness, red, blotchy, starts on the face and spreads across the body
If you get sick:
Stay at home and away from others
Treatment includes rest, drinking fluids and symptom management (eg. Tylenol/Advil for fever)
If you need to be seen at our clinic, it is important to let us know ahead of time that you think you have measles. You must wear a mask.
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent getting sick with measles, or spreading it to others.
Age Range / Year of Birth | Immunization Recommendation |
6 months to under 12 months | May get 1 dose if travelling Will need to restart the full series at 12 months |
12 months to 54 years (born after 1970) | 2 doses |
Over 54 years (born before 1970) | May get 1 dose Presumed to have natural immunity |
If you meet the recommendations above, you are up to date with your measles vaccination.
There are no “boosters” for measles.
Check your “yellow card” (Personal Immunization Record) and/or other immunization records. It is often written as a “MMR” or “”MMR-V” vaccine.
If you are not sure about your vaccine history, or have more questions about the vaccine, here are some resources for information and getting vaccines:
Go to the Ottawa Public Health website: Measles (Red Measles) - Ottawa Public Health
Vaccine assessment. where to get your vaccines, booking options for vaccines
Kids Come First “Vaccinate & Up-To-Date”: Vaccinate and Up-to-Date - Kids Come First
Vaccine assessment and immunizations across the Ottawa region for children and youth
Talk to your primary care team - Are you a registered Primary Care client? If so, Call Medical Reception at 613-233-4697