Reposted from the Saskatchewan Health Authority.  

If you or anyone with you have: Fever + Any one of red eyes, runny nose, or cough + Rash, or have been in contact with someone who has a fever and rash, DO NOT VISIT a healthcare facility. Please phone HealthLine 811 for assistance, or 911 if emergency.

If you have been instructed by HealthLine 811 to visit ANHH and you have the above symptoms, please call the hospital phone number before entering the facility at 306-332-5611 or the number listed on the door signage.

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Increasing risk of measles in Saskatchewan

Measles cases are occurring at an increasing rate worldwide and the risk of exposure to measles in Canada is growing. Measles is one of the world’s most contagious diseases and can be very serious. It can affect all ages, but tends to be more severe in adults and very young children. Catching measles while pregnant can affect the baby.

Measles is spread by coughing, sneezing, or breathing infected air. The virus remains active and contagious in the air for up to two hours. The best way to protect yourself from measles is through vaccination. Two doses of a measles-containing vaccine is 97 per cent effective at preventing the disease. If not up to date on their vaccinations, anyone can spread and catch measles. Please check that everyone in your household is fully vaccinated for measles.

Adults’ eligibility for publicly-funded measles vaccinations depends on their date of birth:

• Born 1970 and onwards – two doses
• Born 1957 to 1969 – if travelling outside of Canada, one dose
• Born before 1957 – no vaccination is required

Children should receive two doses of a measles-containing vaccine, such as the Measles-Mumps-Rubella-Varicella (MMRV) vaccine. The first dose is given at 12 months of age and a second dose at 18 months of age.

Students of healthcare professions are eligible for two doses of a measles-containing vaccine irrespective of birth year. If you believe you are not up-to-date on measles vaccination and are a student of a health profession, please identify yourself when arranging for your vaccinations to be updated.