Measles Information
Measles – What you need to know.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that can be very serious. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent transmission and illness.
Symptoms:
- Rash
- Cough
- Red, watery eyes
- Runny nose
- High fever
- Other symptoms may include ear infections, lung infections or diarrhea
In severe cases, measles can be fatal:
- Measles spreads when someone who has measles coughs or sneezes.
- It can also stay in the air and on things like tables or toys for a long time. 90% of people
who haven’t been vaccinated or had measles before will be infected if they are around
someone who is sick with measles.
Prevention:
- Talk to your Community Health Nurse about protection against measles.
- You can also check your medical records to see if you or your child is vaccinated against
measles through the BC Health Gateway online: Health Gateway
What else can you do?
√ Stay home if you are sick.
√ Wash your hands to protect others.
√ If you have symptoms and need to be assessed, call ahead so the clinic can protect others.
√ Stay up-to-date on your Measles vaccine.
Are you protected against measles?
Measles is a highly contagious disease but the vaccine can prevent serious illness. Contact your local immunization provider to check your own or your child’s immunization records.
You can also check medical records through the BC Health Gateway online: Health Gateway
Find more information at:
HealthLinkBC: Measles | HealthLink BC
or call 8-1-1
The measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine is routinely given at 12 months and 4-6 years of age. If you’re planning on travelling with young children, talk to your immunization provider about getting a dose before these ages.
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