Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I was recently concerned to learn that measles virus has spread to the NWT, and more specifically, to my region in the Beaufort-Delta. This concerns me, because measles is a very serious and contagious disease caused by a virus. It can spread quickly through the air from an infected person when they cough or sneeze.
Measles causes a red, blotchy rash, high fever, runny nose, cough, and red eyes. Most people recover fully from measles within two to three weeks, but measles can be dangerous, especially for infants, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems.
Complications from the measles disease can include:
- Ear infections;
- Pneumonia; and
- Encephalitis, or swelling of the brain, which can cause seizures, brain damage, or death.
Mr. Speaker, immunization is the best way to protect against getting measles. Measles-containing vaccines are safe and extremely effective. Higher-risk individuals exposed to measles should immediately contact their community health centre or healthcare practitioner. Two doses of the vaccine are almost 100 percent protective.
Because of immunization, measles is now a very rare disease in Canada, but outbreaks still occur. Most cases occur in people born in 1970 or later who have not received two doses of measles vaccine and were in the same room as someone with measles. Most at risk are Canadians who travel overseas to areas with lower immunization rates or to areas with outbreaks.
I am very concerned, and I want to ensure my constituents, especially children and parents, have access to the important health information and vaccines that can protect us from this disease. I'll have questions for the Minister of Health and Social Services later today. Thank you.