Manitoba reports 60 measles cases, with 42 in May alone. Parents of infants under 12 months are advised to monitor symptoms and consult healthcare providers.
Measles Outbreak Declared in Manitoba
Manitoba is experiencing a significant measles outbreak, with 60 confirmed cases and four probable cases reported this year. Notably, 42 of these cases have occurred in May alone, prompting health officials to declare an official outbreak. The majority of those affected are unvaccinated children, highlighting concerns about vaccine coverage and public health preparedness.
Rising Cases and Community Transmission
Dr. Santina Lee, Manitoba’s provincial medical officer of health, confirmed that the province is witnessing higher-than-usual measles cases, with ongoing community transmission. This indicates that individuals are contracting the virus without known exposure to international travelers, underscoring the importance of local vaccination efforts.
Parents Express Growing Concerns
Parents of infants under 12 months, who are not yet eligible for the standard measles vaccination, are increasingly anxious. Samantha Joyce, a mother from Lockport, expressed her fears about exposing her three-month-old daughter to potential infections, stating, “I don’t want her to get sick. I’m really scared about that.” Similarly, Chelsey Winston, a nurse from Winnipeg, is considering early vaccination options for her nine-month-old daughter, despite current eligibility restrictions.
Vaccine Eligibility and Recommendations
Currently, Manitoba’s immunization guidelines recommend the first dose of the measles-containing vaccine at 12 months, with a second dose between four to six years of age. However, in response to the outbreak, the province has expanded vaccine eligibility to include six- to 12-month-old infants in the Interlake-Eastern and Southern Health regions, where the majority of cases have been identified. Health officials advise parents to consult with healthcare providers to assess the benefits and risks of early vaccination for their children.
Monitoring and Preventative Measures
Health authorities are actively monitoring the situation and have identified several exposure sites, including medical centers and schools in the affected regions. Individuals who may have been exposed are urged to monitor for symptoms and seek medical advice promptly. Public health officials emphasize the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates to prevent further spread of the disease.
As Manitoba continues to combat this measles outbreak, the community’s response, particularly among parents of young children, will be crucial in controlling the spread and protecting public health.
