Public Health officials are investigating a second confirmed case of measles in the Saint John area.
Dr. Jennifer Russell, the province’s chief medical officer of health, said Monday the case was confirmed at Kennebecasis Valley High School in Quispamsis.
It comes less than three weeks after a case of measles was confirmed in an individual who had recently travelled internationally.
“Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease and is vaccine-preventable,” said Russell in a news release.
Health officials have not said if there is any link between the two cases. They also did not say whether the latest case involves a student or a staff member at the school.
“Public Health is working closely with local health-care providers and school district officials to contact individuals who may have been exposed to the affected individual,” Russell said.
Measles Symptoms
Early symptoms may include fever, cough, 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.
Russell said if these symptoms are present, you should contact your health-care provider, Public Health or 811 before visiting a clinic, physician’s office or emergency room so necessary measures can be put in place to prevent the spread.
The Department of Health says most people are protected with two doses of the measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMRV) vaccine, which is given to babies at aged 12 and 18 months.
Adults born in 1970 or later can receive free measles, mumps and rubella vaccines if they have not already had two doses. Adults born before 1970 are considered immune to measles.
Officials say measles can lead to serious complications, especially in adults and infants. The virus is transmitted through the air or direct contact with an infected person.
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