Multiple measles cases confirmed in Wonowon, Northern Health issues public warning

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. – Northern Health has confirmed multiple lab-confirmed cases of measles in Wonowon.

Health officials now believe the disease is circulating within the community, after the initial case appears to have been travel-related.

According to Northern Health, members of the public may have been exposed to the virus in various community settings in Wonowon and neighbouring areas, including Fort St. John, since late May.

Notably, potential exposure may have occurred in the emergency department waiting area at Fort St. John Hospital on June 2 between midnight and 4 a.m.

Measles is a highly infectious airborne disease that can spread rapidly among non-immune individuals. Most Canadians are protected due to prior immunization or past infection, but anyone who is not immune is at risk of developing symptoms 7 to 21 days after exposure.

Early symptoms of measles include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes

A rash usually develops several days later, beginning on the face and spreading downward across the body. Measles can lead to serious complications requiring hospitalization.

Northern Health advises anyone experiencing symptoms to self-isolate immediately and call ahead before visiting a doctor, clinic, or hospital to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.

If you are well enough:

• Stay home and self-isolate for at least four days after the rash appears
• Avoid public spaces, work, school, and childcare
• Practice good hygiene, including handwashing and covering coughs and sneezes
• Do not share food, drinks, or cigarettes, and avoid close contact with others

If symptoms are severe (such as difficulty breathing, high fever, confusion, or dehydration), call your healthcare provider or the emergency department first before going in person.

Northern Health is asking the public to avoid visiting hospitals or clinics unless symptoms are serious or medical staff advise you to do so. For non-emergency medical advice, contact the Northern Health Virtual Clinic at 1-844-645-7811, available daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Northern Health says the best protection against measles is vaccination. If you believe you may have been exposed, contact the Fort St. John Medical Clinic at 250-263-6000 to book an MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine.

For more information, visit: www.northernhealth.ca/health-topics/measles