Northern Health is advising residents of a potential measles exposure

Northern Health is reporting a new potential measles exposure location in the Prince George area.

The exposure happened at the University Hospital of Northern British Columbia (UHNBC) emergency department, 1475 Edmonton Street.

Date of exposures:

* Aug. 19 - Aug. 20, 6:50 p.m. on Aug. 19, to 2 a.m. on Aug. 20.

* Aug. 16 - Aug. 17, 8 p.m. on Aug. 16, to 1:30 a.m. on Aug. 17.

The regional health authority is asking people who were at the emergency department during these times to monitor for symptoms. Those who may start to feel symptoms can call 811 for an initial assessment.

Measles is highly contagious. Those who may have been exposed and develop symptoms should seek medical attention. Please call first before going to your primary care provider's office, urgent care or emergency department so appropriate precautions can be taken.

People who are most at risk of infection are those who are completely unvaccinated against the disease, including children under one year of age.

There are currently eight active cases in the Northern Health region, for a total of 175 since the start of this year.