Health authorities in Manitoba have issued a significant warning: thousands who attended what is being celebrated as Canada's premier indoor agricultural exhibition may have encountered measles. This alert comes from public health officials as they aim to protect the community from this highly contagious illness.
The Ag Days event, held in Brandon from January 20 to 22, was expected to attract an impressive crowd of around 40,000 visitors. Spanning three days, this gathering saw nearly 600 exhibitors showcasing various agricultural innovations and products at the Keystone Centre, located in southwestern Manitoba.
In a media release issued on Friday, the province strongly recommended that anyone present during the event should be vigilant for symptoms of measles until February 11, 12, or 13, depending on the specific date of their attendance. This caution also extends to individuals who frequented local hotels, restaurants, and shops during the event, as potential exposures could have occurred in these locations both before and after the event dates.
Moreover, the province highlighted particular venues where heightened caution is advised. Those who attended an "Agriculture in the Classroom" event at the Provincial Exhibition of Manitoba Dome Building, also occurring from January 20 to 22, should remain alert for symptoms until the same respective dates in February.
Additionally, patrons at the Great Western Roadhouse inside the Canad Inns Destination Centre between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. on January 20 are encouraged to monitor themselves for any signs of measles until February 11.
The bulletin did not stop there; it pointed to other recent possible exposures unrelated to Ag Days:
- Anyone visiting Stacked Pancake and Breakfast House in Winkler on February 1 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. should check for symptoms until February 23.
- Those who were at the Boundary Trails Health Centre public health office near Winkler on February 2 from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. should keep an eye on their health until February 24.
- Finally, anyone who visited the Boundary Trails emergency department from 7 p.m. on February 3 to 1:10 a.m. on February 4 is advised to monitor for symptoms until February 26.
This month alone, Manitoba reported its highest monthly total of measles cases since the outbreak began last year, with 74 confirmed cases in January. This unfortunate trend has raised the total number to 393 confirmed cases and an additional 37 probable cases since February 2025.
As we reflect on this alarming situation, it raises vital questions about public health awareness and vaccination rates within communities. What steps can we take to ensure we are better protected against such outbreaks? Are there enough resources available for education and prevention? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
