Interior Health is rolling out a series of measles immunization clinics across the East Kootenay region in the coming weeks aiming to increase vaccination coverage and prevent the spread of the highly contagious virus.
While there are currently no confirmed cases of measles in the Interior, cases have been reported in other parts of British Columbia and Canada.
In response, Interior Health is encouraging residents of all ages to check their immunization records and get vaccinated if needed.
“To protect people in our region, Interior Health is holding measles immunization clinics across the region over the next six weeks,” said Dr. Sanaz Vaseghi, a Medical Health Officer with Interior Health.
“There is no confirmed case of measles in the Interior at this time. However, cases have been confirmed in other parts of B.C. and Canada and we recognize people from the Interior are travelling to other places in the province and country.”
The clinics are open to individuals of all ages, and appointments can be booked through local health centres.
Here is a list of upcoming clinics in the East Kootenay:
Fernie
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Wednesday, May 28 | Starting at 10:00 a.m.
École Sophie-Morigeau, 44 Mt Washburn St -
Monday, June 2 | 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Fernie Secondary School, 102 Fairway Drive -
Wednesday, June 4 | 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
École Sophie-Morigeau, 44 Mt Washburn St -
Wednesday, June 11 | 10:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
École Isabella Dicken Elementary, 1301 2 Ave -
Thursday, June 12 | Starting at 9:00 a.m.
École Isabella Dicken Elementary, 1301 2 Ave
Kimberley
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Wednesday, June 4 | 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Blarchmont Early Learning Centre Field, 1850 Warren Ave
Dr. Vaseghi emphasized the effectiveness of the vaccine in preventing measles:
“These clinics are intended to raise immunization rates, recognizing two doses of measles vaccine are almost 100 per cent effective in preventing this serious illness and last a lifetime.”
Where to Get Vaccinated
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Public health units, local health centres, some pharmacies, and family doctors.
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First Nations communities can access vaccines through community health nurses.
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Appointments can be booked online or via your local health centre.
Learn More
For more details about upcoming clinics in East Kootenay, visit Interior Health’s Measles Page.
General measles information is also available through HealthLink BC or by calling 8-1-1.
According to Interior Health, measles is a serious, highly contagious virus that can remain airborne in indoor environments for hours.
Interior Health advises anyone who suspects they may have been exposed or is showing symptoms to contact a healthcare provider before visiting a clinic or hospital to avoid exposing others.
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