Measles may be circulating in small northeast B.C. community, says health authority

Northern Health officials have reported multiple confirmed cases of measles in the small northeast B.C. community of Wonowon since late May. The community, located around 90 kilometers northwest of Fort St. John, is home to the Halfway River First Nation reserve, with a registered population of just under 300 people. The Wonowon School has a student population of just under 60 children.

Measles, a highly contagious disease, has been making a resurgence in Canada, with significant outbreaks in Ontario and Alberta. Northern Health has identified several lab-confirmed cases of measles in Wonowon, indicating that the disease is circulating within the community. As of May 31, B.C. has reported a total of 12 measles cases.

Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a blotchy red rash. While most people are immune to the disease due to vaccination or prior infection, health officials are urging the public to monitor for symptoms for up to three weeks as measles is spread through the air. In severe cases, measles can lead to complications such as brain inflammation, pneumonia, and even death.

Individuals who have not been vaccinated against measles or previously infected are at risk of contracting the virus. Health officials emphasize the importance of vaccination, with two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine offering almost 100% effectiveness in the long term.

Northern Health has advised anyone in Wonowon who may have been exposed to measles to contact the Fort St. John Medical Clinic to schedule a vaccination. Those experiencing a measles rash are urged to self-isolate for at least four days if possible. In cases of severe symptoms, individuals are encouraged to call ahead before seeking medical care to allow healthcare providers to prepare and prevent further spread of the disease.