TERRACE, B.C. – Public Health is advising residents of Northwest B.C. of two new potential measles exposure locations in the Smithers area, as provincial data reveals a significant increase in measles cases, with Northern Health leading the province.
The new exposure sites are:
- Bulkley Valley District Hospital Emergency Department: Monday, August 4, from 6 p.m. to 9:45 p.m.
- Smithers Safeway: Friday, August 1, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Residents who were at these locations during the specified times are advised to monitor for symptoms of measles for up to 21 days after the potential exposure.
According to a weekly update from the BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC), there have been 176 confirmed and probable measles cases in B.C. this year. The Northern Health Authority has reported the highest number of cases, with 126 confirmed and probable infections.
The Importance of Immunization
Measles is a highly contagious disease, and the BCCDC warns that rates are rising as immunization levels decline. The data shows that the vast majority of people with confirmed measles (88%) were unimmunized. The illness can be severe, with almost one in ten people requiring hospitalization.
Public health officials stress that vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles. Two doses of a measles-containing vaccine (MMR or MMRV) provide near 100% effectiveness. Immunization is recommended for everyone born in 1970 or later.
Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, and red, inflamed eyes, followed by a rash that starts on the face and spreads down the body.
What to do if You Have Been Exposed
If you believe you may have been exposed and develop symptoms, it is crucial to call ahead before visiting a healthcare provider. This allows staff to take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the virus to others.
Known contacts of a case who are not immune may be offered a vaccine or immune globulin to prevent infection. People are considered immune if they have had two doses of the vaccine, have laboratory evidence of immunity, or were born before 1970 (1957 for healthcare workers).
For more information on measles, including additional exposure locations, case counts, and how to check your immunization records, residents are encouraged to visit the BC Centre for Disease Control website
To book a vaccination appointment, or to ask questions, Northern Health residents can contact their local health unit. You can also reach the Service BC Vaccine Information Line at 1-833-838-2323 or 8-1-1.
