SASKATCHEWAN — Measles, a disease thought to be all but eradicated in Canada more than a quarter century ago, is making a resurgence.
This highly contagious disease has seen a slow increase in cases in Saskatchewan, including a case in early March in Swift Current, confirmed by the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA). A second case was confirmed on the week of March 17 and a third presumed case is still being investigated.
While some countries have low vaccination rates for measles, this case in Â鶹´«Ã½AVwest Saskatchewan comes amid a decline in measles vaccination rates in the province.
According to the Saskatchewan government, the percentage of children receiving both recommended doses of the measles vaccine by age two has dropped to 76 per cent in 2024 from 80 per cent in 2020. Coverage by age seven has also declined, to just over 87 per cent in 2024 from 90 per cent in 2020.
According to the SHA website, children should receive two doses of a measles-containing vaccine, such as the Measles-Mumps-Rubella-Varicella (MMRV) vaccine. The first dose is given at 12 months of age, and a second dose at 18 months of age. Adult eligibility for publicly-funded measles vaccinations depends on their date of birth.
If you suspect you or a loved one may have been exposed to measles, watch out for these symptoms:
• Seven to 21 days after infection, symptoms include: fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes.
• About three to seven days after symptoms begin, a rash appears, featuring red spots and blotchy patches that start on the face and spread down the body, arms, and legs. The rash can last 4 to 7 days.
• Most people recover from measles within two to three weeks.
If seeking medical treatment, it is advised to notify the medical facility ahead of time, as measles is easily transmissible.
