Manitobans should get up to date on measles vaccinations before travelling, province says

March 9, 2024 Canuck

Manitobans who are booking flights might also want to consider booking an appointment with their doctor to see if they need a measles vaccine, the province says.

Though no cases of measles have been confirmed in Manitoba, the province’s chief public health officer says travellers should make sure they’re up to date on their measles vaccinations before going to any international destinations, as measles cases continue to rise worldwide.

“It’s highly infectious and it can be highly serious,” Dr. Brent Roussin told CBC News earlier this week.

“We really want to have that message out to adults and children, especially if you’re travelling.”

People travelling should see their doctor or go to a travel clinic four to six weeks ahead of their trip, the province said in a news release Friday.

Roussin said even people born before 1970 — who are generally presumed to be immune to the highly contagious disease — should still get a shot if they’re travelling internationally.

“Before 1970 we consider most people have been exposed very likely to measles and have some level of immunity,” he said. “Now we … suggest those people receive one dose.”

Adults born after should make sure they have two doses. Children can first receive the vaccine at 12 months and again between ages four and six, the province said.

Infants between six and 12 months are also eligible for one dose if they are travelling to countries where measles is a concern.

Though the disease was eradicated in Canada in 1998, Roussin said the country still sees sporadic cases related to travelling. As of earlier this week, fewer than 20 cases of measles have been confirmed throughout Canada.

While the most recognized symptom of measles is a red, blotchy rash that often starts on the face, other symptoms are fever, runny nose, cough drowsiness, irritability and red eyes, the province said.

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