Measles outbreak mostly contained in B.C., but U.S. visitor contracted disease

VICTORIA – The B.C. government says a measles outbreak has been largely contained to the eastern Fraser Valley and that about 320 cases have been confirmed.

The outbreak that is now into the fourth week is expected to continue for another two weeks in the communities of Abbotsford, Mission, Chilliwack, Agassiz, Harrison Hot Springs and Hope.

Health Minister Terry Lake is crediting the leadership of Dr. Paul Van Buynder and the health-care providers at the Fraser Health authority for halting the spread of the disease through increased vaccination.

Immunization clinics have been set up in public health and doctors’ offices and the health authority has been working with schools, community groups and churches since the outbreak was declared on March 8.

However, the Whatcom County Health Department said Sunday that an American resident contracted the disease while visiting B.C. and the patient is isolated at home.

Two weeks ago, the health authority confirmed that a student at the B.C. Institute of Technology in Burnaby was infected with measles, which is spread through droplets in the air formed when someone coughs or sneezes.