Local health officials are reminding families not to forget one important item as the school year begins. Dr. Davinder Singh, Medical Officer of Health with Southern Health–Santé Sud, says the return to school is a timely opportunity for parents and caregivers to review their children's vaccination records, especially in light of a recent uptick in measles cases across Manitoba. “The most important thing families can do right now to help prevent measles, and other vaccine-preventable diseases, as kids head back to school is to review immunization records,” says Singh. “Not just for the kids, but for everyone in the household.” As of August 9, the province has reported 11 measles-related hospitalizations this year, one requiring intensive care. All were unvaccinated children under the age of 10. A preventable risk Measles remains one of the most contagious viruses, and its early symptoms can resemble those of a common cold: fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. These symptoms are typically followed by a red, blotchy rash that begins on the face and spreads downward. “What makes measles especially tricky is that it can be contagious even before the rash shows up, about four days before. Someone may not even realize they’re sick before they’re spreading it to others," he explains. The most effective defence against the virus is immunization. Children typically receive their first dose of the measles-containing vaccine at 12 months and a second between the ages of 4 and 6. However, with the demands of parenting, appointments can get missed. This makes it even more important for all families to check their records, regardless of their child’s age. “We know life gets busy, but it’s never too late to catch up. For those who may have missed a dose, we can help get them back on track,” he notes. A long-proven solution The measles vaccine, first introduced in the 1960s, remains one of the most effective tools in public health. One dose provides around 93 per cent protection, and a second dose further increases that. “With two doses, 97 out of 100 people are protected. And even in the rare case where someone who's vaccinated gets measles, it tends to be a lot milder and less contagious,” he explains. In addition to measles, the vaccine also protects against mumps and rubella, and depending on the product, sometimes varicella (chickenpox). Getting vaccinated helps not only the individual but also the community, including those who cannot be immunized due to age or medical reasons. Staying healthy through the school year While measles has made headlines recently, fall also brings a surge of other illnesses, particularly respiratory viruses that spread easily in classrooms and crowded indoor spaces. “We can’t prevent every cold, but we can do a lot to reduce the severity and spread. Getting your flu shot, staying up to date on COVID vaccines, and sticking to those good habits, like staying home when sick, handwashing, and covering coughs, makes a big difference.” This year’s flu and COVID vaccines are expected to roll out in the coming weeks, and Singh encourages families to take advantage of those protections as well. “Last year’s season was rough for a lot of people. We don’t know exactly what this year will bring, but the best thing we can do is be prepared.” What to do if you suspect measles If a parent suspects their child may have measles, Singh advises them to call Health Links or a healthcare provider to help prevent potential spread in waiting rooms and public spaces. “Testing is important, not just for diagnosis and care, but because we may be able to offer protection to others who were exposed, if it’s caught early. If you do have measles, it’s imperative to stay home, especially for the four days after the rash appears,” he adds. Knowing whether you’ve had measles can also help assess long-term immunity. Still, Singh advises vaccination even after infection, as the vaccine offers protection against additional viruses. A safe start to the school year As students head into the classroom with sharpened pencils and new shoes, Singh hopes families will also prioritize protecting their health and the health of their community. “Vaccines are safe, effective, and widely available. By staying on top of immunizations, we’re not just protecting our own kids, but helping to protect every child in the classroom.” For more information or to check your child's immunization records, visit www.southernhealth.ca or call Health Links at 1-888-315-9257.