New case of measles confirmed in Lower Mainland

A case of measles has been confirmed in the Lower Mainland, according to both Vancouver Coastal Health and the Fraser Health Authority.

The infected person, who lives in the Fraser Health region, recently travelled to Southeast Asia. Public health officials say they are following up with anyone known to have been exposed to the virus.

Anyone travelling on Air Canada Flight 66, arriving in Vancouver Feb. 11, or who spent time in the international arrivals area of YVR between 7 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. on the same date, may have been exposed, authorities say.

“Measles is a highly infectious disease transmitted by airborne spread,” Fraser Health said. “Most people in Canada will be immune to measles due to prior immunization or natural infection.”

For those not immune, the Fraser Health Authority recommends the following:

“If you were born in 1970 or later and have not had two doses of measles vaccine, you should get a booster dose of measles vaccine. It is most effective if received within three days of being exposed but still can be received after that. Measles vaccine is provided free of charge.”

Anyone with questions is asked to call VCH Communicable Disease at 604-675-390 or 1-855-675-3900.