Vancouver doctors have confirmed the second case of measles in the city this month.
The highly infectious disease was acquired locally, Vancouver Coastal Health said, while the previous case was contracted abroad.
It comes amid a measles outbreak in Washington state, where 54 cases have been confirmed.
There have also been four cases recorded in Oregon.
Announcing the case today, VCH reminded people in B.C. to get their measles vaccines if they have not already been immunized.
Children who are not vaccinated cannot attend school until the period of transmission has passed on February 28.
Measles spreads through the air and can also be spread through sharing food, drinks, cigarettes or kissing.
Happening now: Dr Althea Hayden tells media that a case of measles has been confirmed in Vancouver. This is the 2nd case in Vancouver this month. pic.twitter.com/ZMMxAzjLIr
— Vancouver Coastal Health (@VCHhealthcare) February 14, 2019
Symptoms include red eyes, a fever, cough, runny nose and – a few days later – a rash that begins on the face but spreads to the chest.
It can lead to inflammation of the brain, pneumonia, seizures, brain damage, deafness and even death.
To learn more, visit vch.ca/your-health/health-topics/measles/measles.
