Vaccines—not cod liver oil or measles parties—are key to stopping the spread, says B.C.’s health official. Here’s why myths are fueling a dangerous trend.
Vaccines Lead the Fight Against Measles, Not Folk Remedies
Forget cod liver oil. Skip the “measles parties.” If there’s one message Dr. Martin Lavoie, B.C.’s deputy provincial health officer, wants to drive home, it’s this: vaccination is the only reliable way to prevent measles.
During a recent update, Dr. Lavoie outlined the year’s measles activity across British Columbia. So far, most infections have surfaced in the Northern Health region—with 73 cases—while smaller clusters were reported in Fraser Health (10), Interior Health (8), Vancouver Coastal (8), and Island Health (3).
As of July 8, just one case remained active, but 10 people were still in hospital—a sobering reminder of how serious this virus can be.
Why Measles Is Not Just a Mild Childhood Illness
Although some view measles as a “rite of passage” in childhood, the truth is far more serious. The virus spreads rapidly and can result in pneumonia, brain inflammation, and even death.
So why are fewer people getting vaccinated against measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR)? According to Lavoie, it’s not due to lack of access, but rather a surge of misinformation and long-standing myths.
How One Discredited Study Sparked Years of Vaccine Fear
Much of the vaccine hesitancy today can be traced back to one pivotal moment in 1998. British doctor Andrew Wakefield falsely linked the MMR vaccine to autism in a now-retracted study. Despite being completely debunked, the myth still lingers.
“That single study did enormous damage,” said Lavoie. “Even today, some still believe vaccines cause a variety of conditions, including autism, which simply isn’t true.”
No, Vitamin K or Cod Liver Oil Won’t Save You
It doesn’t stop with autism myths. Some people now believe that vitamin supplements like vitamin K, cod liver oil, or vitamin A can prevent—or even cure—measles. “That’s just false,” said Lavoie. “They’re not treatments. They’re not preventative measures.”
And then there are so-called “measles parties”, where parents deliberately expose unvaccinated children to the virus. Lavoie warned strongly against this practice. “You’re exposing kids to a dangerous disease that can have lifelong consequences—or worse.”
Vaccination Gaps Put Communities at Risk
According to the latest provincial data, B.C.’s vaccine coverage is concerning:
- 67.8% of residents have received both doses of the MMR vaccine.
- 84% have received at least one dose.
Coverage is highest in Island Health (75.1% for both doses), while Northern Health trails behind at just 61.1%.
Unsurprisingly, Northern Health is also where the majority of measles cases have occurred.
The Bottom Line: Vaccines Work. Myths Don’t.
If there’s one takeaway from Dr. Lavoie’s update, it’s this: Vaccines are the safest, most effective way to prevent measles. Myths and misinformation not only confuse people—they can cost lives.
So if you haven’t yet received both doses, it’s time to roll up your sleeve. Science is clear. Prevention is simple. And your health is worth protecting.
