People who spent time in two waiting areas at Brantford General Hospital on November 6 may have been exposed to chickenpox, according to Grand Erie Public Health.
The potential exposure occurred at the hospital, located at 200 Terrace Hill Street in Brantford, during the following times:
- Emergency department waiting room: 10:23 to 10:36 a.m.
- Zone 7 waiting room: 10:36 a.m. to 12:26 p.m.
Public health is advising anyone who was in those areas during the identified times to monitor for symptoms until November 27, which is 21 days after the exposure.
Chickenpox, also called varicella, is a highly contagious infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Grand Erie Public Health says symptoms typically include fever, fatigue and an itchy rash that develops into fluid-filled blisters. Symptoms usually appear 14 to 16 days after exposure.
Most people who have previously had chickenpox or received two doses of the vaccine are protected against infection, according to public health.
Those at greater risk of serious illness include infants younger than one, pregnant people who are not immune, people with weakened immune systems, and those who have never had chickenpox or have not been vaccinated.
Public health is encouraging potentially exposed people in those groups to contact their primary care provider or a walk-in clinic as soon as possible for assessment.
Anyone who develops a fever or rash should stay home and avoid contact with others, particularly people at higher risk of serious illness. Call ahead before visiting a healthcare setting so staff can arrange appropriate precautions.
People without a primary care provider can contact the Primary Care Access Clinic at 226-388-4725, or book an appointment through the Virtual Urgent Care Clinic.
Anyone unsure of their immunity or concerned about their risk of complications can speak with a healthcare provider or contact Grand Erie Public Health’s infectious disease team at 519-753-4937, extension 6440.
Further information is available at geph.ca/chickenpox.