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HALIFAX — Health officials in Nova Scotia have confirmed three cases of measles in the Halifax area — the first time in nine years the highly contagious infection has been reported in the province.

The Nova Scotia Health Authority said Tuesday it is investigating to determine how the three people became infected.

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Dr. Trevor Arnason said it is rare to see cases of measles in Nova Scotia, and most people are protected by a vaccination.

Measles is a viral illness and most people fully recover within two or three weeks, however it can have serious complications for infants, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems.

“While the risk to the general public is low at this point, it’s important to be aware of measles symptoms and to know what to do if you develop symptoms,” said Arnason.

Symptoms of measles can include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, sleepiness, irritability, small white spots on the inside of the mouth and throat, and a blotchy rash on the face that spreads.

Residents born after 1970 are eligible to receive two doses of the vaccine at no cost through a publicly funded immunization program.