Island Health has confirmed a travel-related measles case in the Nanaimo area, warning some people they may have been exposed at two locations on July 12. Public health officials say the risk to the broader community remains low, but anyone who was at the following locations during the identified times should monitor for symptoms: Island Health says people who were not inside those three Woodgrove Centre stores during the identified time face an “extremely low” risk of exposure. Public health teams are contacting people directly when they can identify individuals who may have had close contact with the case. Measles is a highly contagious illness that spreads through the air. Symptoms can appear up to three weeks after exposure and may include fever, dry cough, runny nose and red eyes. A rash usually develops several days later, often beginning on the face before spreading to the rest of the body. Anyone who develops symptoms is asked to stay home and avoid contact with others. Island Health advises people to call their health-care provider, urgent care centre or hospital before arriving so precautions can be taken to reduce the risk of exposing others. People who have never had measles or have not received two doses of a measles vaccine after 12 months of age are considered at greater risk of infection. Island Health recommends people born in 1970 or later who are not fully immunized receive a measles vaccine. The vaccine is available free in B.C. through public health units, some pharmacies and participating health-care providers. Some people, including infants younger than six months, pregnant people and those with certain immune conditions, should not receive the vaccine. Anyone in those groups who may have been exposed is encouraged to contact public health as soon as possible to determine whether preventive treatment is needed. People who may have been exposed and are unvaccinated, unsure of their vaccine history, immunocompromised, pregnant or have an exposed child younger than one year old can call Island Health’s communicable disease team at 250-519-3575 for guidance. Island Health said in a statement that “the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones against measles is to ensure vaccinations are up to date.” The health authority says two doses of measles vaccine are “almost 100 per cent effective” at preventing the disease and provide lifelong protection. Residents can check their immunization records through Health Gateway or by contacting a health-care provider or local public health unit.
