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Tuesday, December 3, 2024
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Fraser Health Authority have confirmed 228 cases of measles in BC

Roshini Sakhrani, Darpan, 27 Mar, 2014 11:35 AM

    The Fraser Health Authority is urging parents to get their children vaccinated to prevent vulnerability of contracting measles.

    The virus can infect anyone who hasn't been vaccinated before, but children and those who are born before 1970 are more at risk for measles.

    BC's Fraser Valley has reported 228 cases and is setting up immunization clinics at schools, churches and community groups.

    Last week, BCIT confirmed that one of their students had measles and health officials are warning people in the province to take care.

    Symptoms of the virus include: fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes and a red blotchy rash. The rash appears behind the ears at first then spreads to the rest of the body; those at risk will typically see symptoms after 2-3 weeks of exposure to the virus.

    In the most fatal case, measles can also lead to death, and are most chronic complications can arise if children under 5 years, or 20 and above contract the virus.

    Canada confirmed 84 cases last year, and urge people that think they have contracted measles to stay isolated, and avoid work, social gatherings or school.