Localized measles outbreak in Northern Zone declared over

Halifax, N.S. - Public Health has declared the end to the localized measles outbreak in the Northern Zone. The localized outbreak, declared on July 6 and affecting 61 people, ended on Wednesday. These situations are monitored closely over several weeks to ensure there is no ongoing transmission, given it can take time for infections to develop and get diagnosed.

There are currently no known active cases of measles in Nova Scotia.

“This outbreak is a reminder of how quickly and easily measles can spread and affect communities,” said Dr. Cristin Muecke, Regional Medical Officer of Health. “Across Canada, we’re seeing the consequences of declining vaccination rates. Immunization remains our best defense against measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases.”

Public Health reminds Nova Scotians that the end of this outbreak does not mean the threat of measles is over. Measles continues to spread in Canada, and healthcare providers and community members should continue to be vigilant.

“We contained this outbreak through a coordinated Public Health response that included testing, contact tracing, vaccination, monitoring, and education,” said Dr. Muecke. “I want to thank our dedicated Public Health staff, healthcare partners, and community members for their cooperation and commitment. It was through this collective effort that we were able to stop further spread.”

Most people are protected from measles infection from two doses of vaccine. In Nova Scotia, every person born after 1970 should receive two doses of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine after their first birthday. It is possible if you were born between 1970 and 1995 in Nova Scotia that you only got one dose of this vaccine in childhood.

• Public Health encourages all Nova Scotians to take this time to review your family’s vaccine history and ensure all immunizations are up to date.
• Many vaccination records are available online at https://vaxrecordns.nshealth.ca/ or you can follow up with your primary care provider (e.g., family doctor or nurse practitioner).
• There are many access points for measles vaccination in Nova Scotia. Measles vaccines are free to those who are eligible.
• You can book a measles vaccine through your primary care providers, community pharmacy primary care clinics, or Public Health. Find out more at www.nshealth.ca/measles or by calling 1-833-797-7772.

Additional information about measles can be found at www.nshealth.ca/measles.