Three additional cases of measles have been confirmed in the Saint John area, bringing the total number of cases up to eight.
One case is linked to the Saint John Regional Hospital; the other two are connected to previous cases at Kennebecasis Valley High School.
Individuals who were present at the emergency department of the Saint John Regional Hospital on the dates below were potentially exposed to the measles:
- May 19, 10:45 p.m. to 1:35 a.m.
- May 22, 8 p.m. to 11:05 p.m.
- May 24, 9:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
- May 25, 3 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Public health officials say measles is one of the most contagious diseases, and more cases may become apparent in the coming days.
An immunization clinic was held at KV High School on Sunday for those who had not received a second dose of the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine in the past 28 days.
Anglophone South Superintendent Zoe Watson says in the past week, over 800 students and staff have been vaccinated at special clinics at the school.
“For those students that have contra-indications or other reasons for not participating in such a program, we are offering blood work tomorrow afternoon to ensure that when they do return to school, that they’re adequately protected,” she said.
As of Monday, around 30 students and three to four staff members were told to stay home from school by public health, due to not having received a second dose.
A third dose of MMR vaccines will also be provided to those who have already had two doses, but were recently exposed at KV or the hospital.
Officials say two doses of the vaccine is the norm, and is 97 per cent effective. However, that means 3 per cent of people, or three out of 100, may not be well protected, even after getting fully vaccinated.
This is why its important to continue to immunize those who have been potentially exposed.
The high school will remain open with classes continuing as usual.
Watson says the outbreak has not affected student’s education, and classes continue to go on as normal. Some events at the school have been re-scheduled or moved.
Students who may need academic accommodation will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis.
Regional medical officer of health, Dr. Kimberly Barker, says although students and parents are worried, closing the school is not a good idea.
“Closing down a school may not necessarily eliminate the exposure risk, so from our perspective, trying to minimize alternative venues where these kids might congregate would mean keeping them at school and continuously monitoring and performing vaccines,” she said.
Barker is urging people to watch their symptoms carefully, as incubation periods can last from seven to 18 days.
Early symptoms of the measles 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 says if you are presenting symptoms, stay home and call 8-1-1 before visiting the emergency room or your family doctor, to prevent spreading the illness further.
