Region of Waterloo Public Health has confirmed a case of measles in an individual who was present at St. Mary’s High School on May 8th between 8:50 a.m. and  5:00 p.m. Anyone who was at the school during this time may be at risk of developing measles up to 21 days after exposure if not fully protected.

Measles is a highly contagious virus. However, the risk of infection is very low for individuals who are fully immunized (two doses of measles-containing vaccine) or who have previously had measles.

What this means for students and staff:

If staff or student has record of TWO doses of measles vaccine — they are considered fully immunized and may continue to attend school.  Please continue to monitor for symptoms (listed below) until June 6th.

If staff or student has received only ONE dose of measles vaccine — staff or student must stay home from school until May 30th, OR until they receive a second dose.

If staff or student has received NO doses of measles vaccine — staff or student must stay home from school until May 30th.

Anyone who has been exposed to measles and is not fully protected should also avoid the following settings for 21 days after the exposure:

  • Schools and daycare centres, healthcare and dental offices, and any setting where there may be contact with infants under one year of age, pregnant individuals, or people with weakened immune systems

Public Health Follow-Up

Public Health has reviewed immunization records for all students and staff to confirm protection against measles. Public Health will contact students and staff via text or phone if there are no records confirming full protection (or if a vaccination exemption is on file).  You may not attend school or work in the school setting until May 30th unless one of the following applies:

  • If you have only one dose, Public Health will be offering a vaccine clinic. Details will shared via text and updated on the school website. You may return to school after receiving your second dose.

If you have any trouble completing the form or submitting your records, please contact Public Health at 519-575-4480 for assistance.

Measles Symptoms can appear 7 to 21 days after exposure. The illness usually begins with cold-like symptoms:

  • Fever

  • Runny nose

  • Cough

  • Sore throat

  • Red, watery eyes (often sensitive to light)

  • Small white spots inside the mouth and throat

3 to 7 days later, a red, blotchy rash typically develops, starting on the face and spreading to the rest of the body.

Please contact your healthcare provider or Public Health immediately if you develop symptoms.
Thank you for your attention and cooperation in helping to protect the health of our school community.

For more information, please see https://www.regionofwaterloo.ca/measles or call Region of Waterloo Public Health’s Measles Information Line at 519-575-4480