Quebec's Public Health Director Dr. Luc Boileau urges Quebecers to make sure they and their children are vaccinated against measles. (Image Source: THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP, Eric Risberg)
Quebec's public health director has issued a plea to residents to ensure they and their children are adequately vaccinated against measles, citing a surge in cases of the virus across the province, particularly in Montreal.
Dr. Luc Boileau revealed that health authorities have identified 10 measles cases in Quebec, with at least three linked to international travel. However, there's concern about suspected cases resulting from community transmission, raising worries about the virus's contagiousness.
Boileau emphasized the heightened transmissibility of measles compared to COVID-19, stating that unvaccinated individuals exposed to measles are highly likely to contract the virus, which can lead to a rapid escalation in cases.
Montreal, with seven of the province's 10 cases, has a lower vaccination rate compared to other regions, though vaccination rates vary widely across Quebec. Most infected individuals in Montreal are children, some of whom required hospitalization, albeit with no severe cases reported, according to Dr. Caroline Quach-Thanh, a microbiologist and pediatric infectious diseases specialist.
The resurgence of measles cases in Canada is attributed partly to "vaccination fatigue" and rising cases in Europe and other countries, Boileau noted. Stressing the importance of vaccination, he highlighted its efficacy, safety, and quick action compared to the COVID-19 situation.
The last known case of measles in Quebec dates back to 2019, according to Montreal's public health director, Dr. Mylène Drouin. The measles vaccine is part of Quebec's immunization program, with a target of achieving a 95 percent vaccination rate across all regions.
In Montreal schools, vaccination rates hover around 80 percent, prompting targeted efforts by public health officials to increase vaccination rates, especially in schools with low percentages. Lack of data for newly-immigrated children contributes to the challenges in achieving higher vaccination rates.
Montreal Public Health sent a pre-March break reminder to parents to ensure their children are vaccinated. Drouin stressed the importance of self-monitoring for symptoms upon returning to school and work after the break.
The two-dose measles vaccine is over 95 percent effective in preventing infection, according to Montreal Public Health. The agency has listed potential exposure locations and time periods, including Trudeau airport, for those concerned about exposure.
Measles, highly contagious and with an incubation period of 10-14 days, manifests with symptoms like fever, cough, and a red rash. Serious complications, including fatalities, can occur, especially in infants and individuals with compromised immunity.
Boileau urged individuals experiencing severe symptoms to contact Quebec's 811 Info-Santé line or seek medical attention promptly, wearing masks and informing healthcare staff of potential measles exposure. Vaccination appointments can be scheduled online through Clic-Santé or by calling 1-877-644-4545, Boileau added.
