Release
Department of Health
July 14, 2025
FREDERICTON (GNB) – Public Health has declared an outbreak of measles in the Sussex area.
One additional case has been confirmed since last Wednesday, bringing the number of confirmed cases in the province to two.
Other potential cases are under investigation.
“Measles spreads quickly and easily,” said Dr. Kimberley Barker, regional medical officer of health. “With an additional confirmed case, and others under investigation, it is critical to act quickly to prevent it from spreading further.”
Public Health officials advise people to check their immunization records or contact their health-care provider if they are unsure about their immunization status. Barker said the risk remains low for people who are protected.
Anyone born in 1970 or later who has not received two doses of a measles-containing vaccine (measles, mumps and rubella vaccine or measles, mumps, rubella and varicella vaccine) can contact their health-care provider to be immunized. The vaccine is free of charge for eligible New Brunswickers.
Eligible adults can receive the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine at pharmacies. People under 18 should visit their public health office or primary care provider. Children aged 6-11 months are now eligible for an early dose of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine if they are travelling internationally or within Canada to areas with known measles activity.
The measles virus is transmitted through the air or by direct contact with nasal or throat secretions of an infected person. Measles can be more severe in adults and infants and can lead to complications.
People should self-monitor for measles symptoms for up to 21 days following a potential exposure. Early symptoms may include fever, cough, sore and/or red eyes, runny nose or tiny white spots in the mouth. Within three to seven days, a red blotchy rash will appear, first on the face and then spreading to the body, arms and legs.
“We continue to remind individuals that if you develop symptoms, you should self-isolate from others in your household and contact Telecare 811 for further guidance,” said Barker. “If you have symptoms, do not go to the emergency department, clinic, work or school.”
Further updates, including new potential exposures, will be added to the Public Health Advisories and Alerts website.
Additional information on measles and immunization is available online.
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Media Contact(s)
Tara Chislett, communications, Department of Health, [email protected].