British Columbia Sees 299 Confirmed Measles Cases; Northern Health Most Affected

The ongoing measles outbreak in British Columbia has reached a critical point, with the BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) reporting a total of 299 confirmed cases as of October 23, 2023. The Northern Health region is significantly impacted, accounting for 226 confirmed cases, alongside an additional 19 unconfirmed but probable cases.

The latest update from the BCCDC highlights that four new cases have emerged in the Northern Health region, with two currently active. Notably, there are no active cases reported in other health regions across the province. Measles remains contagious from four days before the rash appears to four days after the rash begins. The BCCDC noted that the virus is currently circulating in the North Peace area.

Of the total 299 cases, the majority—274—originated within Canada. Eight cases were imported from outside the country, while 17 cases have unknown origins. Alarmingly, 50 percent of the affected individuals are aged 5 to 17. The BCCDC further reported that 263 of the cases involved individuals who were unimmunized prior to falling ill.

The majority of measles outbreaks in the province can be traced back to a multijurisdictional outbreak that began in New Brunswick in October 2024. According to the BCCDC, 92 percent of the cases reported in British Columbia this year are believed to be linked to this singular outbreak. Fortunately, there have been no reported deaths associated with measles in the province.

The BCCDC urges individuals to learn more about measles and the importance of vaccination. Appointments for immunization can be booked through their website. For further information, visit: https://www.northernhealth.ca/health-topics/measles.

As the situation develops, health officials continue to monitor and respond to the outbreak, emphasizing the need for vaccination to prevent further spread of the virus.