QUICK SUMMARY
Northern Health confirms measles is circulating in Wonowon, a remote community in northeastern British Columbia. The health authority has identified multiple lab-confirmed cases and warns residents of potential exposure in nearby areas, urging those with symptoms to self-isolate.
Northern Health has reported that measles is circulating in Wonowon, a remote community in northeastern British Columbia, with multiple lab-confirmed cases. The initial case was travel-related, but local transmission has been occurring since late May. Residents in Fort St. John and neighboring communities may have been exposed, particularly during a potential contact at the hospital emergency room on June 2. Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes, followed by a rash. The health authority urges individuals experiencing these symptoms to self-isolate for at least four days to prevent further spread. For serious symptoms, residents should contact healthcare providers before visiting. This outbreak comes amid a broader rise in measles cases across North America, with Ontario reporting 74 new cases last week, totaling 2,083 since October. Vaccination remains critical as health officials emphasize the importance of immunization to combat these outbreaks.