New Measles Exposure Alerts Issued for MS Chi-Cheemaun Crossings
Grey Bruce Public Health warns of possible measles exposure on Chi-Cheemaun ferry crossings in July and urges passengers to check vaccination status and monitor for symptoms.
Grey Bruce Public Health is alerting residents to possible measles exposure aboard the MS Chi-Cheemaun ferry earlier this month, as part of a broader investigation into a confirmed case of the virus in Ontario.
The exposures occurred during four crossings between Tobermory and South Baymouth on July 17 and July 21. Health officials say individuals aboard the ferry during those dates and times may have been exposed to measles and are urging them to review their vaccination status and monitor for symptoms.
The advisory stems from contact-tracing efforts by Public Health Sudbury & Districts, which notified Grey Bruce authorities after confirming that a person carrying the virus had travelled on the ferry during the affected sailings.
For those born after 1970, two doses of a measles-containing vaccine are recommended to ensure protection. Anyone unsure of their vaccination status is advised to contact their healthcare provider or check provincial records. Those not fully immunized and within six days of possible exposure may still be eligible for post-exposure treatment.
Measles symptoms typically appear within 7 to 21 days of exposure. Passengers from the July 17 crossings should monitor for symptoms until August 7, while those aboard on July 21 should monitor until August 11. Early symptoms can resemble a cold—fever, cough, runny nose, sore eyes—and are often followed by a distinctive red, blotchy rash that starts on the face and spreads across the body.
If symptoms appear, individuals should self-isolate immediately and contact a healthcare provider. Public health officials stress the importance of calling ahead before visiting any medical facility to prevent further spread.
Although measles is now rare in Canada thanks to routine childhood immunization, it remains one of the most contagious viruses in the world. Even short periods of contact in shared spaces can lead to infection in unprotected individuals.
Grey Bruce Public Health has published a dedicated webpage with more information on measles, including local exposure sites, vaccination details, and public health guidance. That resource is available at publichealthgreybruce.on.ca.
Health officials continue to monitor the situation and urge the public to stay informed, remain up to date on immunizations, and act quickly if symptoms develop.