As measles cases rise in Canada, health officials are urging residents to review their vaccination status. Measles, a highly contagious viral disease, has seen an alarming resurgence with 95 cases reported as of February 21 this year. Most cases are concentrated in British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec, signaling the need for renewed public awareness about immunization.
Since the introduction of the measles vaccine, cases have plummeted by more than 99 percent. However, the current outbreak highlights vulnerabilities in the population, particularly among adults who may not have received full immunization. The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) recommends a two-dose measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine schedule for optimal protection. The first dose is typically administered between 12 and 15 months of age, with a second dose given at 18 months or later.
Despite the effectiveness of the MMR vaccine, which is estimated to be 85-95 percent effective after a single dose and nearly 100 percent after two doses, concerns remain. Notably, those born before 1970 are generally assumed to have natural immunity due to prior exposure. However, adults born after this year might have only received one dose of the vaccine.
Experts emphasize that certain groups should prioritize getting vaccinated. Healthcare workers, travelers, and military personnel are particularly encouraged to ensure they have complete vaccination regardless of their birth year. Sabina Vohra-Miller, a healthcare advocate, noted the importance of updating vaccinations, especially for travelers heading to areas with high exposure risks.
“Those who are travelling, for instance, to an area that has high exposure risk to measles can also consider getting a second dose of vaccine if they feel that they’re unvaccinated, or they’re not sure whether they’ve gotten two doses or not,” – Sabina Vohra-Miller
Furthermore, Vohra-Miller reassured that receiving a booster dose is safe and beneficial for many.
“It does not hurt to get an MMR booster because the vaccine is incredibly safe and incredibly effective,” – Sabina Vohra-Miller
Dr. Isaac Bogoch echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that many individuals may mistakenly believe they are fully vaccinated.
“There probably are a lot of people who think they’re vaccinated who have only had one dose, and the recommendation is if you’re traveling to places where there’s a lot of measles circulating and you only had one dose, you should get a second dose,” – Dr. Isaac Bogoch
As the March break approaches, health officials stress the urgency of reviewing vaccination records. They highlight that measles outbreaks can spread rapidly in areas where vaccination rates are low.
“So I think in order to prevent measles, vaccine is the most effective means and right. The routine immunization recommendation is two doses for people who are born after 1970. So you should really take every opportunity you get to check to see,” – Dr. Isaac Bogoch
Public health experts continue to advocate for vigilance regarding measles vaccinations. Vaccination not only protects individuals but also contributes to community immunity, reducing the overall risk of outbreaks.
