New case of measles in Manitoba traced to travel

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This article was published 07/03/2025 (207 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Public health officials are warning that another case of measles has been confirmed in Manitoba, this time connected to recent travel to Pakistan.

The Winnipeg Regional Health Authority is investigating the new case, which Manitoba Health announced Friday, and officials have warned exposures to the measles virus may have occurred at the Children’s Hospital, the Winnipeg airport and on four flights in recent weeks.

Public health officials say the investigation may uncover further locations of exposure as it identifies other people who may have been in contact with the sick person. Officials may ask individuals to isolate and get vaccinated.

The highly infectious disease is spread through droplets in the air from coughs and sneezes and initial symptoms may include fever, runny nose, drowsiness, irritability and red eyes. Small white spots may also develop on the inside of the mouth or throat.

Several days after the initial symptoms, a red blotchy rash appears on the face and progresses down the body. Measles can lead to complications including ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia and encephalitis, which is brain inflammation.

The lives of infants and young kids can be at risk if infected. Provincial and federal officials have implored all who can to get vaccinated.

Winnipeg Free Press | Newsletter

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It is unlikely people born before 1970 or who have received a measles vaccine will get the disease, officials say, but those individuals should watch for symptoms.

Anyone born after 1970 and those who have never had a measles shot or got the virus should reduce all contact with others, particularly people with weak immune systems from the fifth day after exposure until the 21st day after exposure.

Infants less than six months of age, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems can’t get the vaccine, so officials suggest contacting a health provider to ask about preventative treatments.

The new case of measles comes after five cases were identified in southern Manitoba, linked to an outbreak in Ontario, in January. That outbreak — the first confirmed cases of measles in Manitoba since 2019 — affected members of the same household and saw potential exposures at a Winkler church, HSC and the Children’s Hospital.

fpcity@freepress.mb.ca