Grey Bruce Public Health is warning residents and visitors of potential exposure to the measles virus aboard the MS Chi-Cheemaun ferry, following notification from Public Health Sudbury & Districts during an ongoing contact-tracing investigation.
Health officials say individuals may have been exposed during four specific ferry crossings: Thursday, July 17, South Baymouth to Tobermory at 11 a.m., and Tobermory to South Baymouth at 1:15 p.m; as well as Monday, July 21, Tobermory to South Baymouth at 1:15 p.m., and South Baymouth to Tobermory at 3:30 p.m.
Anyone who was on board during these sailings is advised to review their measles vaccination status. Public health says those born before 1970 are generally considered immune. People born in 1970 or later should have received two doses of a measles-containing vaccine (either MMR or MMRV) for full protection.
Those who are unvaccinated, unsure of their immunization history, or only partially protected are encouraged to contact a healthcare provider or Grey Bruce Public Health. Post-exposure treatment may be available if less than six days have passed since the date of potential exposure.
Common measles symptoms include a high fever, cough, runny nose, sore eyes, and light sensitivity. A red, blotchy rash typically develops three to seven days after symptoms begin, usually starting on the face before spreading to the rest of the body.
Anyone with questions or concerns is encouraged to reach out to Grey Bruce Public Health directly.
