SASKATCHEWAN - In a media conference April 3, Dr. David Torr, Saskatchewan Health Authority Medical Health Officer, said the province now has six confirmed cases of measles, with one confirmed just that morning.
Because measles has no cure or concrete treatment, the best prevention is through vaccination, says the SHA.
The province has set up a website, that contains detailed information such as symptoms, vaccination information and measles exposure locations. Dr. Torr affirms that of the six cases, two were in the southeast part of the province, two are in the southwest part of the province, and now two in the northwest part of the province.
Residents are also encouraged to reach out to 8-1-1 for concerns or questions on how to determine vaccination status.
Dr. Torr emphasizes the importance of immunization in preventing the disease and spread of the disease. In order to achieve herd immunity, 95 per cent of the population needs to be vaccinated, according to Torr.
“Because there is no real treatment and measles affects many different parts of the body that can cause serious complications, prevention is very, very important,” adds Dr. Torr.
The Saskatchewan Health Authority has communicated with all school divisions on the importance of vaccination for measles as well as directives on when infected individuals can return to school.
With measles 小蓝视频 extremely contagious, as transmitted through the air, it doesn’t take much to infect others. Vaccinated persons have really good protection, affirms Torr.
Dr. Torr also states that measles was eliminated in 1998. However, there are now fewer people immunized, and other countries don't have the same vaccine programs or policies.
This media session outlined that the SHA policy cannot require vaccination but strongly encourages vaccinations. Dr. Torr reiterated throughout the press conference that measles vaccination is safe and effective.
You can check your health records through mysaskhealth information website, which should have information as far back as 1978.
Generations before measles vaccine was available should contact 8-1-1 and get advice on whether they need an additional dose or they can guide you to the public health department to get more information.
Measles is a moving target. Torr says while there are six confirmed cases so far, the province does not want to see dozens or hundreds of cases like in an Ontario outbreak.
There is a level of concern when cases start to rise because how fast measles can spread.
Dr. Torr concluded the media conference by once again making a strong statement that vaccination is the only prevention
