Northern Health authorities have reported several confirmed cases of measles in the small community of Wonowon in northeastern British Columbia since the end of May. Additionally, there has been a potential exposure at Fort St. John Hospital earlier this month.
Wonowon, situated approximately 90 kilometers northwest of Fort St. John, is home to the Halfway River First Nation reserve with a registered population of nearly 300 individuals. The local Wonowon School caters to almost 60 students.
The public is urged to remain vigilant for symptoms of measles, a disease that has been making a resurgence in Canada, notably in Ontario with 2,046 confirmed and probable cases as of May 31, and in Alberta.
Northern Health has confirmed multiple cases of measles in Wonowon, although the exact number has not been disclosed. As of May 31, B.C. has reported a total of 12 measles cases, as per Health Canada.
A statement from Northern Health indicates that while the initial case was travel-acquired, the medical officers now suspect the disease is spreading within the community. Residents in Wonowon and neighboring areas, including Fort St. John, may have been exposed to the virus in various settings since late May.
Furthermore, there is a possibility of exposure to measles at the Fort St. John Hospital emergency area on June 2, between midnight and 4 a.m. local time.
Measles is highly contagious and symptoms may include fever, cough, runny nose, and a distinctive red rash. While most people are immune due to vaccination or prior infection, the public is advised to monitor for symptoms for up to three weeks as the virus spreads through the air.
In severe cases, measles can lead to complications such as brain inflammation, pneumonia, and even death.
Individuals susceptible to the virus are those who have not been vaccinated or previously infected. Health officials emphasize that the majority of cases are found in unvaccinated individuals across Canada.
The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine or the measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella (MMRV) vaccine, when administered in two doses, offer nearly 100% long-term protection.
Residents in Wonowon who may have been exposed to measles are advised to contact the Fort St. John Medical Clinic for vaccination appointments. Those displaying measles symptoms should self-isolate for at least four days, and individuals with severe symptoms are urged to call ahead before seeking medical care to prevent further spread of the disease.