Quebec Measles Outbreak: 11 Cases, Thousands Exposed

Tejal Somvanshi

The recent surge in measles cases across Quebec has reached 11 confirmed infections, with health officials warning of widespread exposure at Carrefour Laval mall.

Photo Credits: Dave Haygarth (CC BY 2.0)

"Due to the active circulation of measles in Quebec and the presence of several exposure environments in the Laurentians, Laval, Montreal and Montérégie regions, we urge extra caution," states the MSSS.

Photo Credits: Wilfredo Rafael Rodriguez Hernandez (CC BY-SA 4.0)

The disease hits hardest among three groups: babies under one year old, pregnant women, and those with weak immune systems.

Photo Credits: Cameryn Lester (CC BY 3.0)

Government data shows measles can cause brain damage in one of every 1,000 cases and death in one of every 3,000 cases.

Photo Source: UNICEF Ethiopia (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

Time matters in preventing spread. The MSSS urges anyone who might have been exposed to act quickly.This treatment works best within 72 hours of exposure.contact Info-Santé 811 immediately for preventive treatment.

Photo Source: UK Department for International Development (CC BY 2.0)

Quebec's health system offers free measles shots to anyone born after 1970 who hasn't had the disease or vaccine. Getting vaccinated is simple through Clic Santé's website or by calling 1-877-644-4545.

Photo Source: Arie Basuki (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Health officials advise exposed people to skip public transit, wear masks, and call ahead before seeking medical care. Medical facilities now require advance notification before treating potential measles cases.

Photo Source: Metropolitan Transportation Authority of the State New York (CC BY 2.0)

The current situation shows how a preventable disease can spread rapidly in busy urban areas. Each new case requires health teams to trace contacts. Those exposed must watch for symptoms that might appear up to two weeks later.

Photo Credits: Sham Hardy (CC BY-SA 3.0)