Parents urged to stay up-to-date with vaccinations for children

Contacts of a recent measles case and a cluster of mumps cases have been identified in the region. Southwestern Public Health urges parents and guardians to stay up-to-date with their child’s vaccinations, especially in relation to the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine which can prevent transmission of these diseases.

“Measles and mumps are both very contagious and can easily spread to others before symptoms are visible,” says Dr. Joyce Lock, Acting Medical Officer of Health at the health unit. “We urge parents with children awaiting their second measles and mumps-containing vaccine to get that second dose – the measles, mumps, rubella, varicella (MMRV) dose – as soon as a child turns 4 to complete their immunization. Don’t delay it.”

Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, sneezes or talks. The measles virus can stay in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours. Symptoms of measles can include a high fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes (conjunctivitis), and a red rash that begins on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. Small white spots may also appear in the mouth and throat. Complications can include diarrhea, ear infections, pneumonia, and in very rare cases, brain swelling and death.

Mumps is transmitted by droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms may include painful salivary glands with swollen cheeks, fever, headache, muscle aches and pains, drowsiness, loss of appetite, and trouble chewing. Most people recover from the mumps within 10 days, but in rare cases it can cause deafness, meningitis, or infections in the reproductive organs.

“The best protection here is prevention,” says Dr. Lock. “The MMR and MMRV vaccines are safe and effective, and that second dose provides protection against these contagious diseases.” Additionally, it is important to note that access to travel has increased the circulation of these diseases within our community.

If you think you have measles or mumps, avoid contact with other people and contact your healthcare provider to arrange testing. More importantly, call before you visit so they can prepare for your arrival.