A confirmed case of measles in the Sussex region has Public Health encouraging people to get vaccinated.
The news came just hours before a vaccine clinic was scheduled to take place in the town later in the day on Thursday.
Public Health said the case is believed to be related to another person from outside the province who travelled through the region on June 22 and 23.
Officials said while they are still gathering information, they believe there are likely other cases of the highly contagious virus in the region.
“Given how quickly measles can spread, it is important to take action now,” Dr. Kimberley Barker, regional medical officer of health, said in a news release.
“For those who are already protected from measles, the risk remains low. If you are not protected through previous infection or vaccine, now is the time to get vaccinated.”
Vaccine clinic
A vaccine clinic is taking place at the Public Health office in Sussex (30 Moffett Ave.) from 4:45 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday. Appointments can be booked online through the provincial scheduler, or you can visit the office in person.
Anyone born in 1970 or later who has not received two doses of a measles-containing vaccine can also contact their health-care provider to be immunized. The vaccine that protects against measles, mumps, rubella and varicella is free of charge for babies aged 12 and 18 months.
People should self-monitor for measles symptoms for up to 21 days following a potential exposure, according to Public Health.
Early symptoms may include fever, cough, sore and/or red eyes, runny nose or tiny white spots in the mouth. Within three to seven days, a red blotchy rash will appear, first on the face and then spreading to the body, arms and legs.
“If you develop symptoms, do not go to a clinic, physician’s office or emergency department. Instead, self-isolate from others in your household and call Telecare 811 for further guidance,” said Barker.
The measles virus is transmitted through the air or by direct contact with nasal or throat secretions of an infected person. Measles can be more severe in adults and infants and can lead to complications.
