what you need to know about measles

  • Measles is a highly contagious virus. Those who may have been exposed and develop symptoms should seek medical attention. Because it is so infectious, please call first before going to your primary care provider’s office, urgent care or emergency department so appropriate precautions can be taken.

  • 1 in 1000 children develop swelling of the brain resulting in seizures, hearing loss, and brain damage

  • Measles can wipe out the immune system’s memory to other past infections making you susceptible to previously immune diseases

  • 1 out of 1000 people who get measles will die from measles

For more information visit BC Centre for Disease and Control (BCCDC)

+ What are the symptoms of measles?

Common symptoms include:

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Runny nose
  • Red watery eyes
  • Rash

+ Who can get measles?

  • Unvaccinated individuals
  • Infants too young to be vaccinated
  • Those who have not had a previous measles infection

+ Should I get tested?

  • You should strongly consider getting tested for measles if you are having symptoms consistent with measles, especially if you have a history of recent travel or contact with someone who has measles.
  • A throat/nose swab can be performed up to 7 days after the onset of a rash and an urine test for measles can be performed up at 14 days after the onset of a rash.
  • Please contact your family doctor’s office or call ahead to your local UPCC for further instructions. Local protocols should be in place to prevent the spread.

+ Should I get the vaccine?

  • Immunization is the best way to prevent measles and is very effective in preventing disease. Measles vaccination is given as a two-dose series. The measles vaccine is given along with mumps and rubella (MMR).

  • If you have two documented doses of MMR vaccine given on or after 12 months of age, with both doses given at least 28 days apart, you are considered 99% protected from measles infection and do not need any more MMR vaccines.

  • Vaccination is available and recommended for everyone born after 1970 (1957 for healthcare workers). Getting immunized with at least two doses of measles-containing vaccine is the best way to prevent measles.

  • If your child is under the age of 12 months, speak to your nurse or public health about vaccination for travel or if there is a potential risk of exposure.

Where do I get the vaccine?

For REACH Medical patients, you may book a telephone call or an in person appointment with a nurse to discuss receiving a measles vaccine. If you are unsure of your vaccination status, feel free to book at your convenience either through REACH’s website or calling the front desk at 604-216-3134

People can also get free measles vaccines from their local health unit. Some doctors and nurse practitioners also offer vaccines to infants, children and adults. Use this link to public health to make an appointment.

Children 4 years and older, as well as adults, can be vaccinated at a certain pharmacies. Click here to find a BC Pharmacy with the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine.

In First Nations communities, people can also be immunized by their community health nurse at their local health centre or nursing station.

Pharmacies offering vaccines

The following Pharmacies are close to REACH and provide vaccinations:

- Shoppers Drug Mart at Hastings and Slocan
2748 East Hastings Street, Vancouver
604-251-5358

- Corning Drugs #2 (Main and E Georgia St)
102-236 Georgia St E, Vancouver
(604) 685-7609

-  Alberto Pharmacy (Commercial and 11th ave)
Suite 101 – 2620 Commercial Drive, Vancouver
(604) 879-8481

What If I cannot get hold of REACH?

Should you or anyone else be symptomatic then you may call the BCCDC at 604-675-3900 and the BCCDC will set up a private testing area based on where you live. This may be a walk-in clinic, pharmacy, urgent care, or hospital emergency rooms.