Breaking News: British Columbia Launches Spring COVID-19 and Measles Vaccination Campaign!

Starting Tuesday, April 8, the province of British Columbia will roll out a crucial initiative offering free COVID-19 vaccines, targeting residents most vulnerable to severe illness. This comes at a time when respiratory illnesses like COVID-19, influenza, and RSV continue to circulate in the community.

Dr. Bonnie Henry, the provincial health officer, emphasized the importance of maintaining healthy habits while urging residents to remain vigilant as they return from spring break travels. 'We must continue to practise healthy habits to prevent illness from spreading. If you're feeling unwell, please stay home. And remember, if you need medical attention, it's essential to call ahead to ensure your safety,' she stated.

The COVID-19 vaccine will be available at around 400 pharmacies across BC, as well as at various regional health authority clinics, primary care offices, community health centres, long-term care facilities, and within First Nations communities. Parents, take note! Public health units will also be offering vaccines for children under 12 years old.

The National Advisory Committee on Immunization recommends that the following groups receive an additional spring COVID-19 vaccine dose: - Adults aged 65 and older, with priority for those over 80 - Indigenous adults aged 55 and older - Residents of long-term care and assisted living facilities - Individuals aged six months and older who are clinically extremely vulnerable.

In a concerning development, British Columbia has also reported five measles outbreaks, reflecting a global resurgence of the disease. Dr. Henry warned, 'We are witnessing increasing cases of measles in Canada, with outbreaks in Ontario and infections here in BC.' Measles poses a severe risk, especially to unvaccinated children, and tragically, Canada experienced a death related to measles last year.

Health officials are urging residents to check their measles immunization status and to update their vaccines if necessary. Those at the highest risk for measles include individuals who have not been vaccinated or lack immunity from previous infections. BC residents can easily verify their vaccine records through Health Gateway or by consulting their healthcare provider.

Attention travelers and residents: if you have recently visited areas with reported measles outbreaks, it’s vital to monitor your symptoms closely. Adults born in 1970 or later should ensure they have received two doses of a measles-containing vaccine, as just one dose does not provide sufficient protection. For those born before 1970, immunity is generally presumed due to natural exposure to the virus before widespread vaccination.

The good news? Free measles vaccines are accessible at local health units or health centres! Children aged four and older, as well as adults, can also obtain vaccinations at any participating pharmacy. In First Nations communities, vaccines are available through community health nurses at local health centres or nursing stations.

Take action today to safeguard your health and the health of those around you—do not let COVID-19 and measles make a comeback this spring!