File photo.
Island Health has confirmed an eighth case of measles on Vancouver Island Monday.
In a release, the health authority says the latest individual to test positive was travelling during the infectious period.
Island Health Medical Health Officer Dr. Dee Hoyano says there is a very low risk of transmission and no high-risk public exposures on Vancouver Island.
The BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) is working and sharing information with King County Public Health in Washington.
Island Health says another recent measles infection on the Island was also determined to be travel related with no high-risk public exposures.
Since February, Island Health says more than 7,300 measles vaccinations have been administered, more than double the previous year.
Parents of eligible children not up-to-date for their measles shot are being contacted by Island Health, and the vaccine is being provided until the end of June for kids who not begun or completed their series.
Measles symptoms include fever, runny nose, sore throat, couch, diarrhea and red eyes, followed by a rash a few days later on the face and spreads to the chest.
Island Health says anyone who develops symptoms to call your doctor or health care provider before you visit so precautions can be taken to prevent transmission of measles.
You can call one of Island Health’s measles line:
- South Island: 250-544-7676 ext. 27545
- Nanaimo/Ladysmith/Gabriola: 250-755-3388
- Courtenay/Comox Valley: 250-331-8599
- Campbell River and area: 250-850-2120
- Mt. Waddington/Port Hardy: 250-902-6079
CHEK News
