Measles vaccine clinics to be held at 4 Halifax-area schools this weekend

Nova Scotia Public Health is taking proactive measures to prevent the spread of measles by holding vaccine clinics at several schools in the Halifax area. This initiative comes in response to a recent increase in measles cases in other parts of Canada, prompting health officials to take action to protect the community.

Although there have been no reported cases of measles in Nova Scotia, the disease is highly contagious and can lead to serious complications. Jennifer Turcot, a Public Health officer for the central zone, emphasized the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of measles. The clinics, open to the public, will be held at various schools in the municipality over the next few weeks to accommodate a large number of people on weekends.

The vaccination clinics will run for four weeks, with a reassessment scheduled at the end of the program. This weekend, clinics will be available at four schools without the need for appointments. Turcot stressed the importance of vaccination for everyone, especially those at higher risk of severe complications from measles, such as individuals with weakened immune systems, children under five, and pregnant women.

It is essential for individuals to check their vaccination status to determine if they need to receive the measles vaccine. Turcot reassured the public that the measles vaccine is safe and highly effective, with one dose providing 85 to 95 percent protection, and a second dose nearly 100 percent protection. Once individuals receive two doses of the measles vaccine, they are considered vaccinated for life, unless they have high-risk medical conditions that may require a different vaccine schedule.

Infants aged six to eleven months may receive one dose of the MMR vaccine if they will be traveling, but they will still need two routine doses after their first birthday. Adults born between 1970 and 1995 who only received one dose as children are recommended to get another dose. Adults who missed childhood vaccines are eligible for catch-up doses, while those born before 1969 are considered immune but can receive a single dose if traveling.

In conclusion, vaccination is the best defense against measles, and everyone should take the necessary steps to ensure they are protected. By attending the vaccine clinics at schools in the Halifax area, individuals can contribute to the prevention of measles and safeguard the health of the community.