Serious Health Advisory Issued!

In a concerning health update, the BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) has announced a potential measles exposure linked to the Splatsin Community Centre. Residents are urged to exercise caution!

What Happened?

This alarming notice affects anyone who attended a faith-based gathering at the centre on June 7 and 8. If you were there, you might have been exposed to the highly contagious measles virus!

Understanding Measles: What You Need to Know

Measles spreads rapidly through the air and contaminated surfaces, making it incredibly easy to contract. You could be at risk just by breathing in infected droplets or touching contaminated objects.

Symptoms to watch for include fever, cough, runny nose, and red, inflamed eyes that may be sensitive to light. A rash typically develops soon after, beginning on the face and neck before spreading to the chest, arms, and legs, lasting about four to seven days. Small white spots might also appear inside the mouth.

Current Situation: Measles on the Rise!

Incidents of measles are spiking across British Columbia, particularly in the Interior Health region, where five cases have emerged just this year—three of which are currently active. The Northern Health region has reported the highest numbers, with a staggering 41 cases. Other areas show lesser numbers: Vancouver Coastal Health (8 cases), Fraser Health (7), and one case in Island Health.

Are You at Risk?

If you are unvaccinated or have not received two doses of the measles vaccine, you may be instructed to self-isolate if you've been exposed. Remember, people born before 1970 (or 1957 for healthcare workers) are usually considered immune.

What Should You Do if Exposed?

Those particularly vulnerable include unvaccinated individuals, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals. If you fall into one of these categories, or have a child under one year of age who may have been exposed, contact the Interior Health communicable disease team at 1-855-549-6364 for personalized guidance.

Get Your Vaccination Records!

Don’t forget, you can easily access your measles immunization records via Health Gateway. Parents can manage accounts for children under 12, while those over 12 can set up their own accounts at healthgateway.gov.bc.ca. Stay informed and stay safe!