As the school year kicks off, health experts are sounding the alarm for families: don’t overlook your child’s vaccinations!

Dr. Davinder Singh, the Medical Officer of Health with Southern Health–Santé Sud, emphasizes the crucial moment parents have right now to review their children’s vaccination records. This is particularly important due to a troubling rise in measles cases across Manitoba.

"The best thing families can do to prevent measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases as kids head back to school is to check immunization records for everyone in the household," Dr. Singh warns.

Sobering Statistics

As of mid-August, Manitoba has recorded 11 hospitalizations due to measles this year, with one case requiring intensive care. Alarmingly, all affected patients were unvaccinated children under 10 years old.

Why You Should Care About Measles

Measles is one of the most contagious viruses out there. Early symptoms can easily be mistaken for a common cold, such as fever, cough, and runny nose. However, just a few days later, a telltale blotchy rash typically emerges.

What makes this disease particularly insidious is its contagious nature; it can be spread even before symptoms appear, complicating prevention efforts.

Vaccine: Your Best Defense!

Immunization is the most effective defense against measles. Children generally receive their first dose of the measles vaccine at 12 months and a second between ages 4 and 6. But life gets busy, and vaccinations can be missed.

"It’s never too late to catch up! If your child is behind on their vaccinations, we can help get them back on track," says Dr. Singh.

The Power of the Measles Vaccine

Since its introduction in the 1960s, the measles vaccine has proven to be a cornerstone of public health. One dose boasts around 93% effectiveness, while two doses increase that to an impressive 97%.

And for those who do contract measles post-vaccination, the illness tends to be milder and less contagious.

Protecting the Community

The measles vaccine also defends against mumps and rubella, and some formulations offer protection against chickenpox. Getting vaccinated not only shields your child but helps protect the vulnerable individuals who cannot be vaccinated.

Navigating Cold and Flu Season

With fall’s arrival, watch out for a surge of respiratory illnesses that can spread rapidly in crowded classrooms.

While we can’t prevent every cold, we can mitigate the spread and severity. Keeping up with flu shots and COVID vaccines, along with practicing good hygiene like handwashing and staying home when sick, is key.

What to Do If You Suspect Measles

If you suspect your child has measles, Dr. Singh suggests contacting Health Links or a healthcare provider immediately to prevent spreading the virus in public spaces.

Early testing is vital, not only for accurate diagnosis but also for community safety. If diagnosed, it’s crucial to remain at home, particularly during the four days after the rash appears.

A Safe School Year Awaits

As students gear up for the school year with fresh supplies, let’s also prioritize health vigilance. Dr. Singh encourages families to ensure vaccinations are up to date, making back-to-school safer for everyone.

"Vaccines are safe, effective, and widely accessible. By staying on top of immunizations, we’re not just protecting our kids—we’re safeguarding every child in our community!"