Chatham-Kent Faces Rising Measles Threat

The alarm bells are ringing as Chatham-Kent Public Health confirms fresh cases of measles exposures in the community, with no end in sight. On Tuesday, three new exposure sites were disclosed, raising concerns among residents.

Recent Exposure Locations

The newly identified hotspots for potential measles exposure are:

- **Mercato** (725 Grand Ave., W.): Visited on **Monday, April 14** from **4:30 PM to 7:30 PM**.

- **Walmart Chatham** (881 St Clair St.): Exposed on **Tuesday, April 15** between **10 AM and 1 PM**.

- **Lenovers Quality Meats & Seafood Ltd.** (525 Park Ave., E.): Exposure occurred on **Thursday, April**, from **4:30 PM to 6:30 PM**.

Public Health Urges Caution!

Health officials are urging anyone who was present at these locations during the specified times and who has not been vaccinated to take immediate action. If you fit this description, contact the health unit at **519-352-7270 ext. 5902**.

To ensure safety, individuals showing symptoms of measles—such as fever, runny nose, cough, irritability, red eyes, followed by a characteristic red rash—should inform healthcare providers before visiting facilities.

Vaccination: Your Best Defense

Despite the alarming reports, the majority of residents are protected by vaccinations, significantly reducing the overall risk in the community. However, health authorities stress that staying up-to-date with vaccinations is crucial to protect yourself and those around you.

A Rising Trend

Since January, there have been numerous measles exposures reported in Chatham-Kent, highlighting the pressing need for community vigilance. Stay informed, get vaccinated, and protect yourself against this preventable disease!