What is measles?

Measles is a severe illness caused by the measles virus. The disease is very contagious. It spreads easily though the breaths, coughs, and sneezes of infected people surviving for hours in the air as droplets.

What is the best way to protect myself?

The best protection against measles is two doses of the the measles vaccine (MMR). Vaccinations are available at your local health units, vaccinating pharmacies, doctors' offices, medical clinics, as well as at Langara Student Health Services (room B101). 

How do I know if I need to be immunized?

If you don't belong to any of the three following groups or are unsure of your vaccination status, we recommend that you get immunized immediately:

  • You have previously had the measles, you are immune
  • You were born in Canada before January 1, 1970, you are likely to be immune. No immunizations required
  • You were born in Canada after January 1, 1970 but received 2 documented doses of the measles vaccine (MMR) after you were one year of age, you don't need further vaccinations

What are the symptoms? 

Measles symptoms include:

  • Fever, cough, runny nose, and red and inflamed eyes
  • Followed three to seven days later by a rash, which starts first on the face and neck, and then spreads to the chest, arms, and legs
  • Spots inside your mouth, which look like small grains of sand on a red base

What do I do if I show symptoms?

If you develop symptoms:

  • Stay at home and keep away from other people because they may not be immune
  • Contact your health unit or family doctor. Make sure to call ahead to ensure that you an be seen quickly and minimize the chance of infecting other people

Where can I go to get more information?

For additional information: