Public health officials are warning Brandon residents of a confirmed measles exposure at Wheat City Medical Clinic, located at C1‑1711 Kirkcaldy Drive. Manitoba Health, Seniors and Long‑Term Care says the exposure occurred on March 14 between 9:45 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., and anyone who was at the clinic during that time is being urged to check their immunization status immediately.
Health officials say individuals who are not immunized and were present during the exposure window may still be eligible for preventative treatment, but only within six days of exposure. Those who believe they may have been exposed should contact a health‑care provider as soon as possible.
Residents can view the full list of recent measles exposure locations across Manitoba on the provincial website. Public health is emphasizing the importance of ensuring immunizations are up to date, particularly the MMR or MMRV vaccines, which protect against measles.
For people born in 1970 or later who have never received a measles vaccine and have never had measles, vaccination is strongly recommended. Health officials also advise reducing contact with others—especially those who are immunocompromised or unimmunized—from the fifth day after exposure until the 21st day after the latest possible exposure.
Certain groups should not receive the measles vaccine, including infants under six months, pregnant individuals, and people with weakened immune systems. These individuals should contact their health‑care provider or public health for guidance. Close contacts may also be asked to isolate and consider vaccination depending on their situation.
Measles is a highly contagious airborne virus spread through coughing and sneezing. An infected person can transmit the virus from four days before the rash appears until four days afterward. The illness can be especially severe for infants and young children, sometimes leading to complications such as pneumonia, ear infections, diarrhea, or encephalitis.
Symptoms typically appear 7 to 21 days after exposure and may include fever, runny nose, red eyes, irritability, and small white spots inside the mouth. A red blotchy rash usually develops several days later, starting on the face and spreading downward.
Anyone who develops symptoms after being at the clinic during the exposure period should isolate at home and contact their health‑care provider before visiting a clinic or hospital. This allows staff to take precautions to prevent further spread.
Immunization remains the most effective protection against measles. Manitobans unsure of their vaccination status can contact their local public health office, physician, nurse practitioner, or pharmacist. Routine measles vaccination is provided in Manitoba at ages one and four to six, with additional eligibility during outbreaks.
Public health officials say they will continue monitoring the situation and will update the public as needed. Manitoba is currently reporting 291 confirmed measles cases and 41 probable cases for 2026, according to the most recent provincial update released March 13, 2026. Measles case numbers in Manitoba are updated online every Friday.
