Back-to-School Warning from Public Health Officials

As students across southern Manitoba gear up for a new school year, public health authorities are raising a critical alarm: ensure your children are vaccinated against measles before they step into the classroom.

The Measles Outbreak Spreads!

Southern Health-Santé Sud, encompassing areas from Portage la Prairie to the U.S. border, reports that the highly contagious measles virus is on the rise. With the new school season bringing kids together in classrooms, on buses, and at sports teams, the potential for rapid spread is alarming.

Record Surge in Cases!

Dr. Davinder Singh, a health officer in the region, notes a concerning spike: "We've identified at least five cases in recent weeks alone, surpassing every case documented from 2000 to 2013 combined. The real question isn't if we'll see outbreaks when school resumes, but how many cases will increase." Measles, once deemed eliminated in Canada, is making a distressing comeback in Manitoba.

Why Measles is So Dangerous!

Measles is infamously contagious, capable of lingering in the air for hours. An infected person can unknowingly spread the virus before they even show symptoms, making it especially difficult to contain.

Impact on Health!

Symptoms often start like a cold—fever, cough, runny nose, and watery eyes. Just days later, the trademark rash appears, escalating the risk to those infected. Dr. Singh emphasizes the dangers, noting, "People can be infectious four days prior to ever showing a rash, leading to rapid spread in schools and communities. Severe complications can arise, especially for infants and pregnant women. As of now, 11 children in Manitoba have been hospitalized due to measles; none had been vaccinated."

Vaccination is Key!

The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, a staple in Manitoba since the 1960s, provides strong protection. One dose offers around 93% efficacy, and two doses increase it to about 97%. Due to the current outbreak, the province has extended eligibility, allowing infants as young as six months in high-risk areas to receive early vaccination.

Communities at Risk!

Dr. Singh warns that vaccination rates are far from uniform. "In some communities, over 90% of children are vaccinated, but in others, it's below 50%. This disparity puts many children at risk," he explains. Public health workers are actively addressing the hesitation around vaccinations, whether due to access issues or misinformation.

What Families Should Do Now!

Public health officials have outlined three essential steps for families this fall: 1) Check immunization records for everyone in the household. 2) Schedule appointments for any missing doses. 3) Stay alert for symptoms, especially after gatherings or travels. If measles is suspected, contact Health Links or a healthcare provider before visiting a clinic.

The Clock is Ticking!

How quickly can measles spread in a classroom? Dr. Singh warns that it could infect an entire class within weeks. "With an average incubation period of two weeks, one exposed child can lead to half the classroom being infected, especially if immunization rates are low." As September approaches, there's growing concern another surge is imminent.

Preventing a Public Health Crisis!

For Dr. Singh, the nursery rhyme of measles as a harmless childhood illness could not be further from the truth. "We've seen hospitalizations and ICU admissions already. This virus claims lives. We're urging families to protect their own children and those around them because this suffering is entirely preventable." More information regarding vaccination eligibility and measles concerns can be found on the Manitoba Health website.