A measles outbreak has been declared in part of New Brunswick as more cases of the contagious infection are confirmed.
Public Health announced Friday that it had declared an outbreak in Zone 3, which includes Fredericton and the upper Saint John River valley.
“The situation is evolving rapidly,” Dr. Mark McKelvie, regional medical officer of health, said in a news release.
Two more cases have been confirmed since Thursday, bringing the total number of cases in the province since Oct. 24 to five.
Officials also confirmed that two people are hospitalized at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital in Fredericton.
“With the number of cases growing – and expected to continue growing – now is the time to get vaccinated if you are not protected through previous exposure or vaccine,” said McKelvie.
McKelvie reiterated that the risk related to measles remains low for people who are protected.
The first case, announced on Oct. 24, involved someone who had recently travelled outside of the country. The second and third cases were both close contacts of the first case.
Officials did not say if the two most recent cases were connected to the initial travel-related case.
The measles virus is one of the most contagious infections known, according to provincial health officials.
It 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.
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.
Public Health said most people born in 1970 or later can be protected from measles infection with two doses of vaccine.
While those born before 1970 are generally considered to be protected from measles, people born later who have not received two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine are encouraged to get vaccinated.
“Public Health continues to monitor contacts and notify people of potential exposure as it becomes aware,” said McKelvie.
“In the meantime, New Brunswickers can do their part to limit the spread of this outbreak by ensuring they are protected against measles.”
