With spring break approaching and measles cases on the rise both internationally and in Canada, public health officials are asking people in British Columbia (BC) to ensure their vaccinations are up-to-date.
On Monday, BC confirmed its first case of measles since 2019. Measles is a highly contagious virus that can spread through air and remain present in a room for several hours. An unvaccinated person who is infected by measles can have serious complications, such as pneumonia, hearing loss and brain injury.
To protect yourself, your loved ones and your community, it is important to ensure your vaccinations are up-to-date.
In BC, the measles vaccine is usually given to children as a series of two doses. The first dose, known as the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine, is given on or soon after a child's first birthday. The second dose is called the measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMRV) vaccine, and is given around the time a child starts school.
In February, the World Health Organization reported that a high proportion of measles cases among children below 5 are because of lasting impacts from COVID-19 on health-systems including a lapse in routine vaccinations.
The MMR and MMRV vaccines are safe, effective and can be administered through your local health centre or nursing station.
Contact your local immunization provider to check your child's immunization records and if they're not vaccinated, book an appointment. You can also check medical records through the BC Health Gateway online: www.healthgateway.gov.bc.ca
You can also contact your local First Nation Community Health Nurse to discuss your vaccination status and if you or your family need additional vaccinations. Alternatively, you can look for a local health centre or public health unit here: immunizebc.ca/finder#8/49.246/-123.116
With spring break approaching, many people will be travelling and increased travel can result in the spread of measles, extending the risk to people who may not travel themselves.
Most adults in Canada are already protected from measles because of childhood vaccinations. However, if you or your family are travelling over spring break, it is especially important to check everyone's immunization records.
Health authorities across the province are offering vaccine opportunities in advance of spring break. Learn more about clinics or where to call for more information in your region:
