Health officials are urging British Columbians to check their immunization records as the number of measles cases continues to rise across the province.
As of July 8, there is one active, contagious measles case in B.C. and 10 patients are hospitalized.
A total of 102 cases have been reported so far in 2025 across all five regional health authorities.
The majority of cases have occurred in people who are not fully immunized.
“People are contagious about four days before they develop the rash, and up to four days afterward,” said Dr. Martin Lavoie, Vice President, Population Health and Chief Medical Health Officer for Fraser Health.
“Measles spreads easily through the air and can linger in a room for up to two hours after an infected person has left.”
Health officials say measles is a highly contagious virus that can cause pneumonia, encephalitis and, in rare cases, death.
One in 10 people infected will develop complications, and some may require hospitalization.
“Vaccine misinformation has done real harm,” said Lavoie. “The Wakefield scandal was completely discredited, but its impact continues to affect immunization rates.”
He warned against the dangers of so-called “measles parties,” where children are intentionally exposed to the virus.
“Letting your child get measles intentionally is extremely dangerous,” said Lavoie. “It can lead to lifelong complications, or worse.”
In B.C., children typically receive their first dose of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine at 12 months of age, with a second dose administered between the ages of four and six.
Adults born in 1970 or later are advised to confirm they have received two doses, as one is not considered fully protective by health officials.
Residents who are unsure of their immunization status are advised to check their records through contacting their health-care provider.
Current case counts, exposure locations, and immunization information are available online at bccdc.ca.
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