Local vaccination rates rise after Vancouver measles outbreak
NANAIMO — Measles outbreaks in Vancouver and Washington State have more people locally taking steps to guard themselves against the highly contagious disease.
Mid-island medical health officer Dr. Paul Hasselback said measles vaccination rates “have made a notable jump” after nine Lower Mainland children recently contracted the disease.
He said while health officials are vigilant for signs of the disease on Vancouver Island, he stressed the Nanaimo area is well protected. He said vaccination rates on Vancouver Island for the measles are well over 90 per cent.
“There’s a small percentage out there that has some misinformation and perhaps aren’t making what would be the best choices for their children and here’s a good opportunity to try to clarify some of that,” Dr. Hasselback said.