Traveler from PH brings measles to Canadian province

Manitoba health authorities are asking the public to help prevent the spread of measles after a Winnipeg man caught the virus while traveling to the Philippines. CTVPRESS/AP PHOTO

WINNIPEG, Manitoba – Residents of the Canadian province of Manitoba are being warned to watch for the signs of measles, after a Winnipeg man brought the infectious virus back with him from the Philippines.

The man in his 30s is recovering in hospital in Winnipeg, according to Brent Roussin, the province’s acting chief public health officer said in a statement.

Measles is a contagious disease that can spread in the air through sneezing and coughing.

The province said the risk of transmission is low, but anyone who may have been in one of the following places earlier this week may have been exposed:

• Philippines Airlines flight PR 116 from Manila to Vancouver on June 24.
• Vancouver International Airport customs area and baggage area from 5:15 p.m. (Pacific time) to 7 p.m. (PT) on June 24.
• WestJet flight WJ 458 from Vancouver to Winnipeg on June 24.
• Winnipeg Richardson International Airport arrivals and baggage claim on June 25 from midnight until 2 a.m.
• Assiniboine Clinic on Tuesday, June 25, between 2 and 6 p.m.
• Health Sciences Centre Winnipeg adult emergency department waiting room on Tuesday, June 25 from approximately 4:45 p.m. to 11:59 p.m.

Manitobans are warned to watch for fever, coughing and red eyes in the early onset of infection, with a rash developing on the face that spreads to body.

Particularly at risk include those who aren’t immunized, pregnant women, those with compromised immune systems and kids under the age of 12. Anyone who may have been exposed should closely monitor their health for at least 21 days from the potential exposure date.

Anyone who thinks they may have been exposed is encouraged to call Health Links at 204-788-8200 or 1-888-315-9257 for information.