Urgent Health Alert: Measles Exposure Sites Identified in Windsor-Essex!

The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit has issued an urgent warning to the public regarding several new measles exposure sites. Anyone who visited the following locations during the specified times may be at risk:

- **TMC Urgent Care and Kingsville IDA Pharmacy** on March 11, from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

- **Central Erie Shore Walk-In Clinic** in Leamington on March 13, from 1 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

- **Windsor Regional Hospital – Metropolitan Campus** on March 14, from 10:10 p.m. to 1:40 a.m.

- **McDonald's on Talbot St. W** in Leamington on March 16, from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.

- **Leamington Mennonite Church** on March 16, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

In light of these exposures, it is crucial for individuals who were present at these locations to ensure that they—and anyone they have been in contact with—are vaccinated against measles.

Measles is highly contagious, and symptoms can develop within 7 to 21 days post-exposure. Those who suspect they may have been exposed should vigilantly watch for symptoms, which include:

- Mild to moderate fever

- Coughing

- Runny nose

- Red, watery eyes

Notably, *Koplik spots*, which are tiny blue-white spots that can appear inside the mouth, often manifest 10-12 days after exposure, followed by a characteristic red blotchy rash that typically arises 3-7 days later. This rash tends to start on the face, along the hairline, and then spread to the neck, trunk, arms, legs, and feet, lasting five to six days.

The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit strongly recommends vaccination as the most effective way to prevent measles. For those who have not yet received the measles vaccine, now is the time to act. Protect yourself and your community!

Stay informed and keep an eye out for additional updates as new information becomes available. Your health and safety are paramount—don’t take any chances with measles!