Fraser Health has confirmed that there is a new case of measles in the Lower Mainland, which brings the total number of infections up to 17.
The health authority confirmed the most recent case on Wednesday, March 6, and links the latest incident to the Vancouver outbreak that started on January 14.
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Vancouver Is Awesome spoke to Dr. Aamir Bharmal, Medical Health Officer for Fraser Health, who explained the risks involved with the latest infection.
"We confirmed the most recent case yesterday (Wednesday) in a Fraser Health resident who is linked to initial exposures in Vancouver," he said. "This individual was isolated since their exposure and there is no concern relating to public exposure at this time."
Dr. Bharmal also stated that the health authority is aware that there are rumours of a measles outbreak in Tri-City schools.
"We can confirm that there is no measles outbreak at any schools in our region. There is also no known measles exposure in any of our schools nor in the community in general."
Dr. Bharmal wasn't able to share any specifics related to the latest infection. However, he adds that individuals who have any of the symptoms of measles, such as a fever or rash, should call 811, their health care provider or public health for guidance on follow-up care.
Furthermore, he reminds everyone to ensure that their immunizations are up-to-date.
Measles at first presents with flu-like symptoms, coughing, a runny nose and red eyes, but then a fever develops, followed by the distinctive rash. Complications from the virus include pneumonia, inflammation of the brain (encephalitis), seizures, deafness, brain damage and death.
