Northeast -BC measles vaccinations under the herd -immunity as a school is resumed, say health officials

Health officials in northeast BC are warning that the measles outbreak is far from over and could resurface once schools reopen and students return to class. Cases in the northern health region have almost doubled in the past month, according to the BC Center for Disease Control.

Dr. Jong Kim, Chief Medical Health Officer for Northern Health, expressed concerns about the ongoing outbreak, particularly in the northeast where vaccination rates remain below the necessary level to prevent transmission in the fall. He emphasized the increased risk of exposure and spread of measles as students head back to school.

The outbreak, which is the worst in the province since 2014, initially started at a primary school in the Wonowon community before spreading to other locations such as shops, businesses, and healthcare facilities in Fort St. John. A total of 187 confirmed and likely cases have been reported in northern BC, with some exposures also noted in Prince George and Smithers.

While there has been an increase in vaccinations in the region during the outbreak, Dr. Kim highlighted that the current coverage among children in certain age groups is still insufficient to halt the transmission of the virus. Public health officials typically aim for at least 90% vaccination coverage to achieve herd immunity against highly contagious diseases like measles.

Northern Health will continue to offer vaccination clinics in the community and schools to reach students who may have missed doses or are not immunized. Minister of Health Josie Osborne visited hospitals in the northeast and urged families to vaccinate their children, emphasizing the seriousness of measles and its potential complications.

Osborne stated that while proof of vaccination is not currently required, it is essential for children to be protected and able to attend school safely. The province is also working to address vaccine hesitancy among certain communities and provide reassurance about the safety and importance of vaccinations.

Health officials stress that the upcoming weeks will be critical in determining the course of the outbreak. Increasing vaccination rates could help contain the spread of measles, while failure to do so may result in more cases. Dr. Kim emphasized the importance of vaccination in protecting individuals, families, and communities from preventable diseases like measles.

In conclusion, it is crucial for parents to ensure their children are up-to-date on vaccinations to prevent the spread of measles and other infectious diseases. By working together to increase vaccination rates and address vaccine hesitancy, communities can help prevent future outbreaks and protect public health. Title: The Benefits of Mindfulness Meditation

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