Measles Outbreak in British Columbia Grows to 102 Cases

A measles outbreak in British Columbia, Canada, has grown to 102 cases, with the majority reported in the Northern Health region. The province has seen a significant increase in cases since late May, when the virus was able to spread among a group of unvaccinated individuals. Health officials are urging residents to confirm their vaccination status, citing the contagious and potentially deadly nature of the virus.

Key Takeaways:

• 102 measles cases have been reported in British Columbia so far this year, with 73 cases in the Northern Health region.
• The majority of cases are located in the Northern Health region, followed by Fraser Health, Interior Health, Vancouver Coastal, and Island Health.
• There is currently one active measles case in the province, with 10 people in hospital as of July 8.
• The measles outbreak was sparked by a group of unvaccinated individuals who were large enough to sustain the spread of the virus.
• Health Minister Josie Osborne emphasized the importance of vaccination, citing the risk of serious disease and complications, including pneumonia, inflammation of the brain, and death.
• Deputy provincial health officer Dr. Martin Lavoie stated that the outbreak was connected to travel abroad earlier this year, but the virus gained momentum in late May.

Statistics:

• 102 measles cases reported in British Columbia so far this year (as of July 10).
• 73 cases in the Northern Health region (as of July 10).
• 10 cases in Fraser Health (as of July 10).
• 8 cases in Interior Health (as of July 10).
• 8 cases in Vancouver Coastal (as of July 10).
• 3 cases in Island Health (as of July 10).
• 10 people in hospital due to measles (as of July 8).
• 1 active measles case in the province (as of July 10).

Sources:

• Wire Service B.C.