Measles outbreak in Portneuf, Quebec, rises to seven cases

Health officials in Portneuf, Que., say five additional measles cases have been identified, bringing the total in the area to seven. Portneuf is about 50 kilometres west of Quebec City. The local health authority said the new cases were already being monitored as close contacts and had been quarantining since the outbreak began on June 28. The first case was tied to travel abroad, and the second was linked to contact with that case. Public health officials have also listed possible exposure sites in PontRouge and Donnacona, including a Caisse Desjardins branch, Jean Coutu pharmacies and a Maxi grocery store. Quebec’s total number of measles cases has now reached 27. Officials say measles is highly contagious and can cause serious complications, especially for infants under 12 months, people with weakened immune systems and those who are not fully vaccinated.