Risk of further measles spread is low

NEWS — A measles outbreak has been largely contained to the eastern regions of the Fraser Valley and members of that community, and the risk of further spread is low, Health Minister Terry Lake said today.

Lake applauded the efforts of chief medical health officer Dr. Paul Van Buynder and his staff for corralling the outbreak and preventing it from spreading.

“They inspire confidence in our public health system and demonstrate that by working together, we can all reduce the spread of these diseases.”

Since the outbreak was declared March 8, Fraser health has worked with schools, community groups, church groups, public health nurses and medical officers to investigate it and implement control measures such as setting up dedicated immunization clinics.

There have been 320 cases in communities including Abbotsford, Mission, Chilliwack, Agassiz, Harrison Hot Springs and Hope but officials say the spread of the virus into other communities has been limited.

“This situation is a reminder that an outbreak like this one is avoidable with proper immunization,” said provincial health officer Dr. Perry Kendall.

“I encourage all British Columbians to get vaccinated as the best way to protect yourself against diseases like the measles.”

The measles outbreak is expected to continue for another two weeks as the second and third wave of the disease makes its way through the communities.