The Durham Region Health Department is alerting residents to potential measles exposure at several Ajax locations after a confirmed case from outside the region visited while contagious.
According to the Health Department, the individual visited the following venues during the contagious period:
| Location | Address | Date | Time | Watch for symptoms until |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ajax Rotary Ribfest (Ajax Downs Casino) | 50 Alexander’s Crossing, Ajax | May 24 | 10 am to 10:45 am & 2 pm to 10 pm | June 14 |
| Ajax Rotary Ribfest (Ajax Downs Casino) | 50 Alexander’s Crossing, Ajax | May 25 | 11 am to 8 pm | June 15 |
| Cineplex Odeon Cinemas – Lilo and Stitch showing, concession area and washrooms | 248 Kingston Road East, Ajax | May 24 | 11 am to 4 pm | June 14 |
As of now, there are no confirmed measles cases reported within Durham Region this year.
The Health Department advises anyone who was at these locations during the listed times to:
- Confirm that they and their family members have received two doses of the measles vaccine (MMR or MMRV). Individuals born before 1970 are generally considered immune due to likely childhood infection.
- Monitor for symptoms until the noted “watch for symptoms” date.
- Stay home and avoid work or school if symptoms develop. Call ahead before visiting a clinic or hospital and wear a well-fitting mask to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.
- Contact Durham Health Connection Line at 905-668-2020 or 1-800-841-2729 if they do not have access to a health care provider.
Measles is highly contagious and can cause serious illness, particularly in infants, pregnant individuals who are not immunized, and those with weakened immune systems. The virus can remain in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours.
Symptoms of measles typically appear 7 to 21 days after exposure and may include:
- High fever (possibly exceeding 38.3°C/104°F)
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Sensitivity to light
- A red rash lasting four to seven days
For more information and updates on exposure sites, visit Public Health Ontario’s Measles Exposure page or durham.ca/Measles.
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