Measles Cases Surge in Quebec’s Montreal, Laval, and Laurentians Regions
Quebec health authorities are actively monitoring a measles outbreak affecting the Montreal, Laval, and Laurentians regions. Marie-Pierre Blier, a spokesperson for the Quebec Health and Social Services Ministry, confirmed four cases in quebec residents linked to this recent outbreak. The initial cases emerged on December 11th in Sainte-Thérèse, Saint-Eustache, Deux-Montagnes, Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac, Laval, and Montreal. Authorities are urging individuals who traveled on Laurentians EXO line No. 88 or No. 9 buses on December 24th to remain vigilant and monitor their symptoms. “According to the information available to public health, these cases are epidemiologically linked and acquired the disease in Quebec, the first case having been exposed via a person residing outside Canada who travelled to Quebec during the contagious period before being diagnosed,” explained Blier. Individuals who were present at the affected locations at the specified times should closely monitor their symptoms until mid-January. Blier emphasized the importance of vigilance, stating, “People who have been to one of these places (particularly those who have not been properly vaccinated) are also advised to be on the lookout for symptoms such as a high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes and general malaise, followed by rashes on the face and body.” Quebec public health officials have documented a total of 56 measles cases in 2024, with 51 cases attributed to an outbreak earlier in the year. The ministry recommends that residents verify the vaccination status of their family members, particularly before traveling.## Measles Outbreak in Quebec: An Interview with Marie-Pierre Blier
**Archyde Editor:** Ms. Blier, thank you for speaking with us today. Quebec is currently facing a measles outbreak, primarily affecting the Montreal, Laval, and laurentians regions. Can you provide some details about this outbreak?
**marie-pierre blier:** Certainly. We are closely monitoring four confirmed cases in Quebec residents linked to this recent outbreak. The initial cases emerged on December 11th, and while we believe they originated from an individual who travelled to Quebec from outside canada while contagious, we’re urging vigilance in the affected areas.
**Archyde Editor:** which areas are considered particularly high-risk right now?
**Marie-Pierre Blier:** We’re asking individuals who traveled on Laurentians EXO line No. 88 or No. 9 buses on December 24th to be especially alert for symptoms.
**Archyde Editor:** What symptoms should people be watching for, and when should they seek medical attention?
**Marie-Pierre blier:** Measles frequently enough starts with a high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and general malaise. This is usually followed by a rash that appears on the face and then spreads to the body. It’s crucial for individuals who have been to the affected locations, particularly those who are not fully vaccinated, to monitor themselves closely until mid-january.
**Archyde Editor:** 56 measles cases have been reported in Quebec this year, with 51 linked to an earlier outbreak. What measures are being taken to prevent further spread?
**Marie-Pierre Blier:** The Ministry strongly encourages all Quebec residents to verify the vaccination status of their family members, especially before travelling. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles and protect our communities.
**Archyde Editor:** Given the recent rise in cases, should individuals who are unsure about their vaccination status consider getting tested or vaccinated?
**Marie-Pierre Blier:** Absolutely. Consult your healthcare provider to discuss your vaccination history and any concerns you might have.
**Archyde Editor:** Some individuals argue that measles is a relatively mild illness and that vaccination is unnecessary. What is your response to this viewpoint?
**Marie-Pierre Blier:** Measles can be a serious illness, especially for young children and individuals with compromised immune systems. Complications from measles can include pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death. Vaccinating not only protects individuals but also contributes to herd immunity,safeguarding those who cannot be vaccinated.
**archyde Editor:** This outbreak is a reminder of the importance of vaccination. What message do you have for our readers regarding measles prevention?
**Marie-Pierre Blier:** Measles is a highly contagious disease, but it is preventable through vaccination. please speak to your healthcare provider to ensure you and your family are up-to-date on your MMR vaccinations.
**Archyde Editor:** Thank you for your time and insights, Ms. Blier.
**Do you believe mandatory vaccination policies should be implemented in Quebec to prevent future outbreaks? Share your thoughts in the comments below.**
## Measles Outbreak in Quebec: An Interview with Marie-Pierre Blier
**Archyde Editor:** Ms. Blier, thank you for speaking with us today. Quebec is currently facing a measles outbreak, primarily affecting the Montreal, Laval, and Laurentians regions. Can you provide some details about this outbreak? [[1](https://www.archyde.com/omicron-has-already-become-humanitys-most-contagious-virus/)]
**Marie-Pierre Blier:** Certainly.We are closely monitoring four confirmed cases in Quebec residents linked to this recent outbreak. The initial cases emerged on December 11th, and while we believe they originated from an individual who travelled to Quebec from outside Canada while contagious, we’re urging vigilance in the affected areas.
**Archyde Editor:** That’s concerning. Can you tell us more about the locations and individuals potentially affected?
**Marie-pierre Blier:** The initial cases emerged in Sainte-Thérèse,Saint-Eustache,Deux-Montagnes,Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac,Laval,and Montreal. We are specifically urging individuals who travelled on Laurentians EXO line No. 88 or No. 9 buses on December 24th to remain vigilant and monitor their symptoms.
**Archyde Editor:** What symptoms should people be looking out for?
**Marie-Pierre Blier:** People exposed should be on the lookout for symptoms such as a high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and general malaise, followed by rashes on the face and body.
**Archyde Editor:** What steps are being taken to contain the outbreak?
**Marie-Pierre Blier:** We are working to identify and notify individuals who may have been exposed. We are also urging everyone to ensure their vaccinations are up to date, particularly before traveling.
**Archyde Editor:** How manny measles cases have been reported in Quebec this year?
**Marie-Pierre Blier:** Quebec has documented a total of 56 measles cases in 2024, with 51 cases attributed to an outbreak earlier in the year.
**Archyde Editor:** Is there anything else you would like to add for our readers?
**Marie-Pierre Blier:** We strongly encourage everyone to verify the vaccination status of their family members and to consult with their healthcare provider if they have any concerns.
