Manitoba Health Warns of Measles Exposure at Brandon Ag Days Event

Manitoba health officials have issued a public health advisory after confirming a case of measles exposure at the Brandon Ag Days agricultural fair in Brandon, Manitoba, raising concerns about potential spread and urging residents to check immunization status. The advisory was posted after a person with contagious measles attended the event, which draws thousands of visitors annually for exhibits, trade shows and community activities.

Public Health officials said the individual was likely infectious while at the event, meaning others who were present may have been exposed to the virus — a highly contagious pathogen that spreads easily through respiratory droplets and close contact. Measles symptoms typically begin with fever, cough and sore throat, followed by a characteristic rash, and can be particularly severe or dangerous for young children, pregnant people and those with weakened immune systems.

Manitobans who attended Brandon Ag Days on the dates listed in the advisory were advised to monitor themselves for symptoms consistent with measles for 21 days after exposure. Health authorities strongly emphasised the importance of being up to date on measles-containing vaccines — typically given as part of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine — as the best protection against infection. Those unsure about their vaccine status were urged to contact their health provider or public health office for guidance.

The province’s communicable disease specialists also outlined measures for those who may have been exposed, including self-isolation if symptoms develop, early contact with healthcare providers to arrange testing, and steps to prevent further spread. Public health units often work to identify close contacts and may issue separate notifications to households or settings where an infectious person lived or worked.

Measles was declared eliminated in Canada in the year 1998 thanks to widespread vaccination efforts, but cases still occur when travellers bring the virus from regions where it remains endemic or when community immunity drops. Recent years have seen sporadic outbreaks tied to unvaccinated populations, prompting ongoing public health messaging about immunization benefits.

Brandon Ag Days, which features agricultural exhibits, equipment displays and educational programming, typically attracts thousands of visitors from across Manitoba and neighbouring provinces, increasing the possibility that exposure at the event could affect people in multiple communities. As of the advisory, no confirmed secondary cases had been reported, but health officials remain vigilant and are following up on leads related to the exposure.

Officials reiterated that people who are fully vaccinated are well protected, noting that two doses of the MMR vaccine provide about 97 per cent effectiveness against measles. They also reminded residents that those with symptoms should avoid public places until they are evaluated, to protect others and help limit transmission.

Manitoba’s health department said it will continue to monitor the situation and issue updates if additional exposure sites are identified or public health recommendations change.