Manitoba has eliminated measles, but experts urge vaccination – Winnipeg

measles spread all over the world, including Canadahaven't touched on it yet Manitoba.

Dr. Davinder Singh, medical officer of health for Manitoba's Department of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care, said the last measles case in the province was in 2019, but the province is preparing for more outbreaks. Stated.

“Cases are immediately reported to public health authorities through multiple mechanisms,” he said, including laboratories that automatically send notifications to public health authorities when measles is detected. Stated. Additionally, “health care providers are asked to notify public health authorities of suspected measles cases.”

He said if someone is identified as having measles, there are steps to find out who they came into contact with while infected and provide post-infection support.

While it's not currently a problem in Manitoba, Singh said it's a growing problem in other parts of the world and in Canada, so travelers should be careful.

“There is always a risk of introducing measles cases after travel,” he said, adding that vaccination is the best way to prevent the disease.

“Measles is a highly contagious virus,” he says. “It's much more contagious than other viruses.”

Statistically, if unvaccinated people are exposed to the virus, nine out of 10 people will become infected, he said.

“The measles vaccine is very safe and very effective. It is one of the most effective vaccines available to us. One dose of the vaccine gives a child approximately 90 We can expect a preventive effect of 30%.”

Almost 100 percent efficacy is achieved with two doses.

“But we know that it's possible to get infected even if you've had two vaccinations, just because the infection is so strong. But that would be very rare,” Singh said. said.

“This is one of those cases where an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

Once you have received two doses, you do not need to be vaccinated again, even if some time has passed, he said.

“It has a very long protection period. So it is effective and covers a period of time that can be considered as lifetime.”

If you are unsure whether you have been vaccinated against measles, you have several options.

Singh said the records may be in the state's immunization registry, which can be found by talking to a pharmacist, doctor or local health department. Alternatively, a blood test is also an option.

Medical officials said there was no danger in accidentally giving the extra dose.

“It's not necessary for most people. If you've had two doses of the vaccine and you're not immunosuppressed or have special medical considerations, you would be considered protected,” he said. Stated.

Canada's Immunization Guide They say even children as young as 1 year old can do it. receive the first measles vaccination.

Manitoba also has: People eligible for vaccination (including those without proof) of immunity.

Symptoms to watch for include “red eyes, watery eyes, runny nose, cough (and) fever,” Singh said.

“After some of these initial symptoms, a rash often appears on the face and head and then spreads to the body.”

Although the symptoms themselves may not seem too severe, the consequences can be dire.

“Measles can cause hearing loss and brain damage due to swelling. It can be fatal. Before vaccines, I think around 2.6 million people died from measles each year around the world,” he said. pointed out that there are currently approximately 100,000 deaths per year.

“If people are not protected by vaccination and have not been exposed to measles in other ways, the consequences could be especially severe if someone reintroduces measles into Manitoba.”

He added that measles is a respiratory disease and can remain airborne for up to two hours after someone leaves the room. Therefore, people who think they are infected should alert their health care provider before seeking medical attention.

“Please wear a mask and try to give us advance notice so that we can take additional precautions to prevent infecting others,” Singh said.

Manitoba Health Authority tracks immunizations We provide annual reports on our website.

Singh said 2022 data will be released soon.

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Prompt warning for measles cases

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