The BC Government is out to boost the numbers of people protected against measles announcing a "catch-up" immunization program.
BC Health Minister Adrian Dix says the province will spend $3-million to buy double the amount of vaccine it buys annually, and will be offering vaccinations in schools and special clinics between April and June:
" In addition to the school-based program, health authorities will be setting up special clinics at community health centres and public health offices, community centres and mobile community clinics in select regions -- such as Vancouver Coastal Health. Each health authority will deliver the program in a way that best meets the needs of their unique population."
Dix says the global increase in measles has resulted in large outbreaks in several countries, which impacts our province as people travel and bring the virus home:
" Measles, as you know, is highly infectious and easily spread. It has serious, long-lasting potential complications including pneumonia, inflammation of the brain, seizures, deafness, brain damage and death."
Dix says in order for populations to be protected by "herd immunity" vaccination rates must be at 95% -- but recent numbers show the rate at 82%.
This is phase 1 of the government's response. Phase 2 will see mandatory school registration introduced this fall. Details on how that will look are expected in May.