Health authority confirms new measles case, further exposure across Metro Vancouver

Another case of measles has been confirmed in Metro Vancouver.

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

The health authority also explains that there may be possible exposure to those living in Vancouver, Richmond, Squamish, Whistler, and Steveston.

Less than a week ago, VCH announced three cases of measles at two different French schools in Vancouver – Jules-Verne Secondary School and Anne-Hebert Elementary School.

There have been eight confirmed cases of measles in the city so far.

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

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Symptoms of measles:

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

These are followed three to seven days later by a rash, which starts first on the face and neck, and spreads to the chest, arms and legs, and lasts 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 immunization records to make sure you and your children have had two doses of the measles vaccine (MMR or MMRV). Your immunization record or your doctor can provide you with this information. Adults 18 years of age and older, born in or after 1970 require two doses of measles vaccine; children 12 months to less than 18 years of age, health care workers and adults attending post-secondary institutions are required to have two doses; those born before 1970 are generally considered immune.
• If your immunization record is not up-to-date, contact your local public health unit.
• Infants under one year of age, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems can get very ill with measles and should contact their health care professional immediately for further assessment.
• Watch for symptoms of measles until 21 days after exposure. These include a high fever, cold-like symptoms (cough/runny nose); sore eyes or sensitivity to light; small spots with a white centre on the inside of the mouth; and a red rash lasting four to seven days.