BC provides update on measles cases within the province

In late June, the BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) warned that measles had been traced to a Victoria cafe and on some BC Ferries sailings between Swartz Bay and Tsawwassen. 

Following this, the BC government has provided an update on the current measles situation within the province. 

The Province says that as of Tuesday, July 8th, there was one active contagious case of measles in BC, with 10 patients hospitalized. 

So far, in 2025, there have been 102 cases of measles reported across the entirety of the province. 

Below is a breakdown of where these measles cases have occurred in BC:

• Island Health: 3
• Interior Health: 8
• Vancouver Coastal Health: 8
• Fraser Health: 9
• Northern Health: 71

“The majority of cases of measles in BC are in individuals who are not fully immunized,” said the Ministry of Health in a media release. 

“The Province and public health recommend people check their immunization records. It is recommended that people have two doses of a measles vaccine.”

According to the BCCDC, measles is an extremely contagious virus and can often lead to severe disease.

Complications of measles can include pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) and even death. 

“People most at risk are those who are completely unvaccinated against the disease and who have no immunity from past exposures,” said the Province.

Those wanting to know their immunization status, can look up their file via Health Gateway, contact their healthcare provider or call 811 to speak to a health-care professional. 

When in doubt, the Province says it is safe to have an additional dose of the measles vaccine. 

Children older than 12-months-old are considered fully immunized after two doses and adults born in 1970 or later should ensure they have received two doses of a measles-containing vaccine, according to the Province.

Those who may have been exposed should isolate themselves and call ahead before seeking healthcare. 

To find information on where a free measles vaccine can be administered, click here.