Health Authority Confirms New Measles Case and New Exposure in Metro Vancouver

Another case of measles has been confirmed in the Greater Vancouver area.

Later this afternoon, Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) will share information on a new case in the Lower Mainland.

The health authority also explains that there could be a risk of exposure among people living in Vancouver, Richmond, Squamish, Whistler and Steveston.

Less than a week ago, VCH announced three measles cases in two French schools in Vancouver: Jules Verne High School and Anne Hebert Elementary School.

Until now, eight cases of measles have been confirmed in the city.

Dr. Althea Hayden, Medical Officer of Health, will make an announcement at 4 pm

Symptoms of measles:

Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose and red, inflamed eyes (often sensitive to light), usually beginning 7 to 14 days after exposure.

These are followed three to seven days later by a rash that begins on the face and neck, then spreads over the chest, arms and legs and lasts for at least three days. . You may also notice spots inside your mouth that look like small grains of sand on a red base.

• Check your vaccination record to make sure that you and your children have received two doses of measles vaccine (MMR or MMRV). Your vaccination card or doctor can provide you with this information. Adults 18 years and older, born in 1970 or later, require two doses of measles vaccine; children aged 12 months to less than 18 years, health care workers and adults attending post-secondary institutions are required to receive two doses; those born before 1970 are generally considered immune.
• If your vaccination record is not up to date, contact your local public health unit.
• Infants under one year old, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems can be very affected by measles and should contact their health care professional immediately for further evaluation.
• Monitor the symptoms of measles until 21 days after exposure. These include high fever, cold-like symptoms (cough / runny nose); sore eyes or sensitivity to light; small spots with a white center inside the mouth; and a red rash lasting four to seven days.

Vincent Plana

Just here trying to have fun.