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Measles case discovered in Lower Mainland, British Columbia

Measles case reported in B.C.'s Lower Mainland from an out-of-province visitor on Saturday. Ontario resident diagnosed with infection.

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Measles case discovered in Lower Mainland, British Columbia

Heads Up: Measles Alert in B.C.'s Lower Mainland

Got a minute? We need to chat about a travel-related measles case detected in the Lower Mainland of B.C. The culprit? An Ontario visitor who graced Vancouver and Chilliwack on April 20.

If you happened to be in these specific spots during the mentioned date and time, you might've been snuggling with measles-laden air particles.

Here's the breakdown:

  1. Air Canada Flight AC2105 from Toronto to Vancouver on April 20, from 8:38 a.m. to 10:09 a.m.
  2. Vancouver International Airport's domestic arrivals area (including baggage claim) between 10:15 a.m. and 1:15 p.m. on April 20.
  3. Chilliwack Coliseum between 12:30 p.m. and 3:15 p.m. on April 20.
  4. Coast Chilliwack Hotel at 5920 First Ave. from 1 p.m. on April 20 to 12 a.m. on April 25.

Health officials are working to trace those who came into direct contact with the contagious stranger, but they're not ruling anyone out. So, keep a keen eye on your health for the next three weeks.

"Measles? More infectious than a frat party in February," as the health advisory delicately puts it. Always rising to fame by spreading through the air, measles is a disease most Canadians are immune to, thanks to prior immunization or past infections.

Pay heed to the following symptoms - a sign you've caught a measly souvenir:

  1. Fever
  2. Dry cough
  3. Runny nose
  4. Red eyes
  5. Rash starting on the face and spreading like wildfire across the body

If you're in doubt or notice any of these symptoms, give the health authority a ring at 604-507-5471.

Worried about an immunity gap? Fear not! The measles vaccine, aka the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine, is free and widely available at various locations. You can access it at:

  1. Public Health Units - Book an appointment by calling during normal business hours.
  2. Community Pharmacies - Find a nearby pharmacy using the British Columbia Pharmacy Association's locator tool. It's a good idea to call ahead to verify availability.
  3. Family Doctors and Walk-in Clinics - Give your doctor a ring to confirm the availability of the vaccine at your preferred location.

Traveling with a baby who's barely a half year old? No worries! The little champ is eligible for the measles vaccine if heading to regions battling an outbreak. And adults born in 1970 or later should have received two doses to achieve robust protection.

Stay safe, folks! Better armed than deceased by a viral ambush.

  1. If you're worried about being susceptible to measles due to chronic diseases, mental health conditions, or even a lapse in medical-conditions vaccinations, consider seeking advice from your healthcare provider about getting the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine.
  2. For fitness enthusiasts, remember that maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, can strengthen your immune system, potentially helping you fight off measles more effectively.
  3. The science behind cannabidiol (CBD) is still emerging, but some research suggests it may have potential benefits for overall health-and-wellness, including supporting a healthy immune response, which might be beneficial in helping protect against measles.
  4. In the event that you find yourself exhibiting measles symptoms, such as fever, dry cough, runny nose, red eyes, or a rash starting on the face and spreading across the body, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly to reduce the risk of complications.
  5. In addition to the measles alert in the Lower Mainland of B.C., it is important to consider your overall health when traveling, as certain destinations may pose unique risks or requirements. Consulting a travel medical specialist can help you better understand any vaccinations or health precautions you should take before embarking on your journey.
  6. When traveling, remember to be aware of potential outbreaks of infectious diseases, such as measles, and to take steps to protect your health, like covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, washing your hands frequently, and avoiding close contact with individuals who are sick.
  7. Please be mindful that immunity gaps can occur for various reasons, such as if you have a weakened immune system due to chronic illnesses, chemotherapy, or other treatments. In these cases, it may be necessary to consult with your healthcare provider about additional precautions to take when traveling to areas with high rates of measles or other infectious diseases.
Another measles case linked to travel was reported in British Columbia's Lower Mainland on Saturday, as health officials confirmed a person from Ontario tested positive for the disease.

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