Manitoba measles outbreak still presents challenges after one year

Health officials report the Manitoba measles outbreak has continued for a year, with most cases concentrated in Southern Health and many infections occurring in people who were not immunized.

It's been one year since Manitoba first reported cases in the current measles outbreak, and health officials say the spread has continued. Southern Health has recorded the majority of cases, according to regional and university public health officials. Experts cited lower vaccination coverage and vaccine hesitancy as factors linked to ongoing transmission. Health authorities have been working with local providers, schools and community programs to share information and increase vaccine access. Key facts: - Provincial data reported 371 confirmed and 32 probable measles cases since February of last year, as of Jan. 24. - About eight in 10 reported cases have been in Southern Health, and the vast majority of people who became ill were not immunized. - Provincial data show 22 hospitalizations during the outbreak, including two patients treated in intensive care, and many hospitalized were children under 10. - Reported public health responses include expanding measles vaccine eligibility for infants as young as six months and local outreach through primary care and education partners. Summary: The outbreak has added workload to emergency departments and administrative teams and has resulted in preventable illness, officials say. Health authorities and community partners continue outreach and vaccination efforts. Undetermined at this time.