Manitoba is enduring its worst measles outbreak in decades, with the number of cases now at 240. We are closely monitoring provincial updates to ensure you have the information you and your patients need to navigate the outbreak.

A Quick Reference Guide provided by Manitoba Public Health aims to support clinicians in recognizing and responding to measles cases and contacts.

Manitoba Public Health continues to monitor for measles cases and exposures. 

View the exposure locations in Manitoba.

Active screening for measles-related symptoms are in effect for visitors to HSC Women’s Hospital, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), Children’s Hospital, and Ambulatory Care Clinics. Entry may be restricted if there is a risk of measles. Screening may be expanded to other areas of the hospital as needed. You can read more about this change here. 

Vaccine Eligibility

As the number of cases increases, so too have provincial requirements for vaccine eligibility.

As of May 14^th, children aged 6 to under 12 months who meet the following criteria are now able to receive one dose of MMR in addition to the routine schedule offered at 12 months and 4 — 6 years IF:

• They reside in Southern Health-Santé Sud (SH-SS) or Interlake Eastern (IERHA), OR

• They travel regularly to AND have close contact with residents of SH-SS or IERHA

The province has also expanded vaccine eligibility to include children aged six months to under 12 months who have been evacuated due to the fires. 

Previously, eligibility was limited to 12 months or older with few exceptions.

Here is a list of resources to keep in mind as the measles outbreak continues:

• Measles (rubeola) communicable disease protocol.

• Manitoba Public Health updates its tally on Wednesdays. Information can be found here.

• Information about what to do if you suspect a patient has measles can be found here.