Southern Health-Sante Sud is urging families to check their immunization records as measles cases continue to surge across the region.
Dr. Mahmoud Khodaveisi, Medical Officer of Health for Southern Health-Santé Sud, says the outbreak is concentrated in the southern part of the province.
“Since the beginning of this year, 113 cases as of June 14th reported in Manitoba,” notes Khodaveisi. “This is an underestimate of the real number of cases.”
Related stories:
He adds that the largest number of infections are among children and teens between 5 and 20 years old; nearly all of those infected have not been vaccinated.
Low immunization rates to blame
The region’s lower vaccination rates, partly due to disruptions during the pandemic, are playing a big role in the spread.
“Unfortunately, with the COVID pandemic, probably at that time many people didn’t have access to immunization,” says Khodaveisi. “Then after that, they didn’t go for immunization, so we observed a decline in immunization rates.”
Measles can be dangerous, especially for children under five, pregnant people, and those with weakened immune systems. Complications can include pneumonia, ear infections, swelling of the brain, and in rare cases death.
Measles spreads before symptoms show
Health officials say measles is one of the most contagious viruses in the world. It spreads through the air and can linger in a room for up to two hours.
“Even people can transmit the infection before they know that they have they experienced any symptoms,” remarks Khodaveisi. “The people infected people can transmit the infection four days before the onset of the symptoms until four days after that.”
Initial symptoms include fever, cough, red eyes, and runny nose. A rash follows a few days later, starting on the face and spreading to the body.
Province expands vaccine eligibility
To help stop the spread, Manitoba Health has expanded vaccine access. Infants aged 6 to 11 months who live in Southern Health or Interlake-Eastern regions, or have close contact with residents, can now receive an early extra dose.
“In response to this outbreak, Manitoba has expanded vaccine eligibility,” adds Khodaveisi. “Now, infants between six months of age to under 12 months of age who reside in our region, they are eligible for one additional dose as well.”
Two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine are nearly 100% effective. The first dose is usually given at 12 months, with the second between ages 4 and 6.
What to do if you’re unsure or exposed
Southern Health-Sante Sud is asking residents to review their records and catch up on any missed shots. Measles can still be prevented with timely vaccination, even if you’re behind schedule.
“If they are not up to date in terms of immunization, they can connect with the local public health or primary care provider,” continues Khodaveisi. “If they experience any symptoms, please stay home or avoid public places and call their healthcare providers prior to go there.”
For the most up-to-date eligibility list or to book a vaccination, visit gov.mb.ca/health/publichealth/cdc/vaccineeligibility.html.
More information is also available at Canada.ca/measles.