Hamilton Public Health investigating confirmed case of measles

Hamilton Public Health Services (HPHS) is investigating a confirmed case of measles in a Hamilton child.

Hamilton Public Health Services release: https://www.hamilton.ca/city-council/news-notices/news-releases/hamilton-public-health-investigating-confirmed-case-1

On Thursday, March 6, at approximately 8:00 PM there was a measles exposure in the waiting room of the Emergency Department of McMaster Children’s Hospital.

What does this mean for MCH patients and their families – If a patient or caregiver was in the waiting room of the MCH ED during this window of time, they are being contacted by Hamilton Public Health to check their immunity status.  If they are not immune they are being advised by public health regarding home IPAC measures.

Hamilton Health Sciences (HHS) sites, including McMaster Children’s Hospital, are safe places for care.

• We have screening measures to identify and care for patients who may have been exposed to measles when they come to our emergency departments and in other clinical areas.
  • Anyone with a fever or cold symptoms or rash should wear a mask when entering the hospital.
  • Individuals at risk or those suspected of having measles may be asked to wear a mask and separated from other patients.
  • Anyone coming to the emergency department or an appointment will be asked about their measles vaccination status.
• Patients should continue to attend their scheduled appointments at our sites. However, if you think you may have measles or been exposed, please contact your HHS care team before your appointment or scheduled procedure or test.
• All individuals that think they may have been exposed to measles at any time should call Public Health Services at 905-546-2489as soon as possible to speak with a public health nurse.
• More information about measles, how to identify symptoms and risk factors, can be found on the City of Hamilton’s website.

What is measles? Learn about symptoms and prevention from our health care experts at McMaster Children’s Hospital.

Measles FAQ for essential caregivers & patients with appointments (PDF)