Ottawa Public Health has confirmed measles infections in two Ottawa residents, according to an advisory issued to local physicians and nurse practitioners on October 8.

Both individuals had known exposure to measles outside of Ontario. According to the advisory from Dr. Michelle Foote, Associate Medical Officer of Health, there is currently no evidence of local transmission, and the risk to the general population remains low.

What residents need to know

Ottawa Public Health directly notified community contacts who could be identified following the diagnoses. A public service announcement was issued on October 8 to reach contacts who could not be identified or contacted directly.

The health unit has updated its online measles exposures table to help people determine whether they may have been exposed to the virus, how long the monitoring period lasts, and what steps to take next.

Anyone identified as a contact is being advised to monitor for symptoms of measles for 21 days from their exposure. Symptoms typically include fever, rash and respiratory signs, and anyone who develops them is being asked to contact their health care provider.

Vaccination urged as best protection

In the advisory, Ottawa Public Health emphasized that immunization provides the best protection against measles infection. The health unit directs residents to its measles webpage and Ontario's Publicly Funded Immunization Schedule for details on routine and high-risk eligibility, including for people travelling to regions with ongoing measles activity.

The advisory, which was addressed to Ottawa physicians and nurse practitioners, also reminded clinic operators to ensure all staff are up to date with their measles vaccination, which can prevent work exclusions if an exposure occurs.

Under provincial reporting rules, all persons being tested for measles and all suspected or confirmed cases must be reported to Ottawa Public Health immediately.

The health unit also pointed to additional resources from Public Health Ontario for health care professionals on signs and symptoms, testing, management and immunization.

Residents who believe they may have been exposed can consult the OPH measles exposures table or the health unit's measles webpage for guidance.