In the SWORBHP Region, the number of confirmed measles cases is rising beyond the provincial average. ​

The following provides some general information about this virus.​

Please follow up with the public health team in your region to learn more about potential exposure risks and follow up with your service for guidance on managing patients with confirmed or suspected measles diagnoses.

What is Measles?

• Highly contagious respiratory virus ​
• Spread through respiratory droplets and can remain airborne for up to 2 hours​
• Symptoms include high fever (> 38°C), cough, runny nose, red eyes, Koplik spots (inside the mouth), and a red blotchy rash​
• Symptoms develop 7 – 21 days after exposure and most often present around post exposure day 10​
• Respiratory symptoms manifest early with the “classic” measles rash as a later symptom

Measles Rash​

• Characteristic red rash that starts on the face and spreads to the body (centrifugal pattern) ​
• After 3 – 4 days the rash will turn brown​
• People are infectious from 4 days before the rash appears up to 4 days after the onset of the rash. ​

Who is at Risk? 

• Those who are unvaccinated ​
• Immunocompromised ​
• Young children who have not yet received their full Measles/Mumps/Rubella (MMR) vaccine​
• Pregnant patients (risk for in-utero complications)​

What can Paramedics do? ​

• Vigilance to risk:​
  • Don appropriate PPE for airborne precautions
    • N95 mask, gown and gloves​
  • Actively screen patients for symptoms and potential exposure to measles​
• Specific treatments: No specific treatment required. Utilize appropriate BLS care and any associated Medical Directives

Summary

• Measles is a highly contagious virus​
  • Individuals are contagious for 4 days before onset of rash and 4 days after​
  • Symptoms develop 7-21 days after exposure​
  • Respiratory symptoms precede the typical rash​
  • Those most at risk: unimmunized or under-immunized​
• Pearls for Paramedic practice​
  • Remain vigilant for potential risk and done appropriate PPE as required​
  • Manage patients as required per BLS PCS or ALS PCS management

No additional resources available for this #SWORBHPTip.