As families across southern Manitoba prepare for summer vacations, camping trips, day programs and summer camps, Southern Health-Santé Sud is reminding the public to protect against measles this summer. With increased travel and large gatherings during the summer months, public health officials are reminding residents to stay vigilant and ensure all eligible family members are fully immunized against measles. Whether you’re hitting the road, sending children to camp, or hosting visitors from out of town, now is the time to double-check your immunizations.

Measles is a highly contagious and serious disease that spreads easily through the air — especially in enclosed places where people spend long periods of time, like homes, bunk houses, tents, community centres, and vehicles during long trips. Measles can cause high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a distinctive rash. Infants and young children are especially vulnerable to complications like ear infections, pneumonia, brain swelling, or worse. As well, pregnant women could go into early labour, have a miscarriage, or pass measles onto their newborn. Someone with measles can spread the virus before they even show symptoms — making vaccination the best protection.

Vaccination is the safest and most effective way to prevent measles. It not only protects individuals but also helps shield those who cannot be vaccinated, such as infants, pregnant women, and people with certain medical conditions. The measles vaccine has been available in Canada for more than 50 years, first introduced in 1963. Since then, it has played a critical role in reducing the number of cases and protecting communities from outbreaks.

Protect Your Family Before You Travel or Camp:

• Review immunization records for every household member
• Ensure children, teens, and adults are up to date with their MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine
• Book an appointment with your local public health office or healthcare provider if vaccines are missing
• Watch for symptoms like fever, cough, or rash, especially after travel or attending large events.

Two doses of measles vaccine is almost 100% effective in preventing measles infection. Children typically receive their first dose at 12 months of age and the second between 4 and 6 years of age. Due to the severity of the current outbreak, Manitoba Health has expanded eligibility for the measles vaccine. Children aged 6 to under 12 months who fall into any of the following categories may receive one additional early dose:

• Living in Southern Health-Santé Sud or Interlake-Eastern regions
• Regular travel to and close contact with residents of those regions
• Evacuated from wildfire-affected communities in Manitoba

The full list of eligibility criteria for the measles vaccine in Manitoba can be found on the Manitoba Health website.

For more information on measles and known exposure sites, please review the Measles General Information (Low German version) or visit the Manitoba Health website.