12 active measles cases confirmed in B.C. with potential exposures in Surrey, Kamloops, Victoria, Chilliwack, and on BC Ferries routes.
Measles Cases Rising in B.C.
The B.C. Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) has confirmed 12 active cases of measles in the province, as public health officials urge caution following a sharp increase in infections. Since the beginning of 2024, a total of 49 measles cases have been reported, including 17 new cases since June 19. These recent infections span the Fraser, Interior, and Northern health regions, with confirmed exposure locations in several cities — including Surrey.
Exposure Locations Include Surrey and Public Transit
Between June 16 and 21, individuals infected with measles visited multiple public locations, potentially exposing others to the virus. In Surrey, exposures were identified at the Marriott Civic Hotel, Autograph Collection (13475 Central Ave) on June 20 from 8:30 p.m. to 11 p.m., and again on June 21 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Potential exposure sites also include stores and restaurants in Chilliwack and Kamloops, and several BC Ferries sailings between Tsawwassen and Swartz Bay on June 20. Public health officials are particularly concerned about ferry passengers and staff who may have come into contact with the virus during those crossings.
How the Virus Spreads and Who Is at Risk
Measles is a highly contagious airborne virus that spreads through coughing, sneezing, or direct contact with respiratory droplets. Individuals can develop symptoms up to three weeks after exposure. The BCCDC advises anyone potentially exposed between June 16 and 21 to monitor for symptoms until at least July 12.
Symptoms typically include high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a blotchy red rash. Complications can be severe, especially for infants, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems.
Public Health Response and Safety Measures
In response to the recent cases, BC Ferries is directly notifying passengers and staff who were on the affected sailings. Health authorities are also working to inform businesses and locations where exposure may have occurred. The BCCDC recommends unvaccinated individuals and those unsure of their immunization status to contact their healthcare provider immediately.
Health officials continue to stress the importance of vaccination. Two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine are 97% effective in preventing measles.
What to Do If You Were Exposed
People who visited any of the listed locations during the times of potential exposure are advised to stay alert for symptoms and avoid contact with vulnerable individuals. Anyone developing symptoms is urged to call their healthcare provider before visiting a clinic or hospital to prevent further spread.
The public can find the full list of exposure sites and times on the BCCDC website or by contacting local health authorities for guidance.
Preventing Further Spread
With the summer travel season underway, health officials are concerned about the potential for wider transmission. Vaccination remains the most effective defense. “We’re seeing a preventable disease spread again, largely due to gaps in immunization,” the BCCDC stated in its bulletin.
The situation is being closely monitored, and further updates are expected as investigations continue across affected regions.
