18 cases of measles reported in northern B.C., officials say
The northern region of British Columbia is currently facing a measles outbreak, with health officials confirming 18 suspected and confirmed cases in the area. The highly contagious disease has been circulating in the small community of Wonowon, located around 90 kilometers northwest of Fort St. John.
According to the B.C. Centre for Disease Control, seven cases have been confirmed through laboratory testing in the Northern Health region, while 11 cases are assumed to be measles based on reported symptoms and exposure. This brings the total number of confirmed measles cases in B.C. this year to 30.
Measles has been making a comeback in Canada, particularly in Ontario and Alberta. Ontario has reported 2,118 confirmed and probable cases of measles, while Alberta is also experiencing an increase in cases.
Dr. Jong Kim, the chief medical health officer for Northern Health, emphasized the importance of checking immunization status and getting vaccinated if necessary. The confirmed cases are primarily located in the northeast, specifically in the Wonowon and Peace River areas.
Measles is a highly contagious disease that can cause symptoms such as fever, coughing, a runny nose, and a red rash. In severe cases, it can lead to complications like brain inflammation, pneumonia, and even death. Health officials are urging the public to monitor for symptoms for up to three weeks, as the disease is spread through the air.
The Halfway River First Nation reserve in Wonowon is at risk due to the outbreak, with a registered population of just under 300 people. The Wonowon School, which has a student population of just under 60 kids, is also vulnerable to exposure.
Health officials are recommending two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine or the measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella (MMRV) vaccine for protection. These vaccines have been shown to be almost 100% effective in the long term.
Kim highlighted the importance of herd immunity in preventing outbreaks, noting that the immunization rate in northeast B.C. is below the necessary level. Health officials are closely monitoring the situation to protect the community and prevent further spread of the disease.
Anyone in Wonowon who has been exposed to measles is advised to contact the Fort St. John Medical Clinic to schedule a vaccination. Those with a measles rash should self-isolate for at least four days if possible, and individuals experiencing severe symptoms should call ahead before seeking medical care to prevent further spread of the disease.
