Saskatchewan is currently in the midst of a large, ongoing measles outbreak. Since mid-March, more than 96 previously confirmed cases—until recently the most severe of the three types—have required highly intensive care. On October 22, health officials confirmed a new case that included a patient age 55 and older. The patient’s vaccination status is not clear at this point. This occurrence would have been the second ICU admission associated with the outbreak in 2023.
To date, the province has experienced a total of ten hospitalizations from measles, underscoring how serious these outbreaks can be. Health officials have been forced to place two people into intensive care as a result of the measles outbreak in Saskatchewan. So far, lives lost have thankfully not been reported. The vulnerable story serves as a poignant reminder of the critical role vaccination plays in protecting against the dire health consequences of measles infection.
Given the increasing number of cases, Saskatchewan’s health authorities are currently advocating residents to check their vaccination status. They urge that everyone make sure they are up-to-date with two doses of measles, mumps and rubella vaccine (MMR). Unimmunized residents and travelers in Rosthern, Preeceville, Theodore, Foam Lake, and surrounding regions are at increased risk of exposure. So, it’s doubly important that they be on their toes and be proactive.
Experts and health officials have warned since the beginning of this new outbreak that measles can be a dangerous virus with serious complications. A distinct splotchy, red rash usually develops several days after the fever starts in infected people. The latest outbreak began in March. Facing an unprecedented surge in case numbers, health officials have broadened vaccination efforts to reach infants as young as two months.
Authorities are urging everyone to be vaccinated against measles, especially children and young adults. This is essential to removing widespread public health risk and preventing the virus from spreading any further. The current outbreak is an unfortunate but vivid illustration of the need for strict compliance with vaccination schedules and the health of our communities.
