There is an increase in measles in Vancouver, but this time it’s not in Washington state. Health officials in Vancouver, British Columbia reported eight additional measles cases during the past week.

British Columbia Image/EOZyo
British Columbia
Image/EOZyo

This follows the single unrelated case reported on Feb. 7, bringing the total to nine cases reported in February in the city.

Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) Medical Health Officers determined that the first infection was acquired outside of North America.

According to health officials, one of the individuals visited the BC Children’s Hospital Emergency Department while they were infectious. Those who were at the emergency department on the dates and times below could have been exposed. Most people in B.C. are immune to measles.  However, if you were at the emergency department during these times and do develop symptoms of measles, please contact your family doctor, or doctor at a walk-in clinic.

  • January 21, 2019 – 10am to 6:10pm

  • January 23, 2019 – 4:45pm to 11:10pm

  • January 24, 2019 – 8:13am to 11:40am

  • February 1, 2019 – 2:05pm to 6:55pm

Measles is a highly infectious disease that spreads through the air. Close contact is not needed for transmission. The disease can also be spread through sharing food, drinks, cigarettes, or kissing an infected person.