Measles Outbreak Resurfaces in Quebec Pediatric Center
After a period of no reported cases, measles has made a comeback in a pediatric facility located in Saint-Eustache, Quebec. The outbreak has led to the identification of three confirmed cases so far.
Measles, a highly contagious disease, manifests with symptoms such as high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a distinctive rash that first appears on the face and then spreads to the body. Individuals who have not been vaccinated, particularly infants, are at risk of developing severe complications, and in some instances, even death.
The recent outbreak has been traced back to the UP pediatric emergency center in Saint-Eustache. Individuals who were present at the facility between 3:30 p.m. and 8:10 p.m. on Nov. 28 are advised to monitor their health for symptoms until Dec. 19 due to potential exposure to the virus.
In the event that an unvaccinated person comes into contact with a confirmed measles case, it is crucial for them to self-isolate at home starting from the fifth day post-exposure until the 14th day inclusive, as the contagious period begins after the initial four days.
In November, Canada lost its measles-free status, a title it had held since 1998. The outbreak initially began in New Brunswick in October 2024 and has now affected over 5,000 individuals nationwide, resulting in tragic fatalities of infants in Alberta and Ontario.
While Ontario managed to declare an end to its outbreak in October following over 2,000 reported cases, Quebec saw its outbreak conclude in April with 36 confirmed cases. In Alberta, the outbreak persists, with around 2,000 cases reported, while other provinces continue to document sporadic cases.
Canada can only regain its measles-free status after a minimum of 12 months without transmission of the specific outbreak-associated strain.
