The news is frightening. Measles was supposed to have been eradicated, but several cases have entered Western Canada from foreign countries where vaccination rates are low.
However, here in Northeastern Ontario, the Porcupine Health Unit says it hasn’t seen a case of measles in the last ten years. Public health nurse Lesley Westheuser knows why.
“We’ve been fortunate to not see cases due to excellent coverage rates in our immunization programs,” she says.
Measles has gotten into other parts of Canada on airplanes. The disease is spread through the air, by coughing or sneezing.
Westheuser has advice to make sure you don’t pick it up.
“With March Break around the corner” she says,” if you’re travelling, it is really important to make sure you and your family are up to date with your immunizations and if you’re travelling with an infant who is six to 12 months of age, you should consult your health care provider or travel clinic to see if the measles vaccine is recommended.”
