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Fraser Health holding measles at bay

The Fraser Health Authority says the measles outbreak has now largely been contained to the eastern regions of the Valley.

Health Minister Terry Lake credited FHA’s chief medical health officer Dr. Paul Van Buynder and his staff with showing “professionalism and tireless efforts.”

An increased uptake in vaccination has helped to stop the disease from spreading any further.

Since the outbreak was declared on March 8, 2014, Fraser Health has worked with schools, community groups, church groups, public health nurses and medical officers to investigate the outbreak and implement control measures such as setting up dedicated immunization clinics in public health and physician offices and urging people to get vaccinated.

The outbreak is currently in its fourth week and is primarily affecting Abbotsford, Mission, Chilliwack, and communties up to Hope.

There have been an estimated 320 cases, including one of a student at the Kwantlen Polytechnic Langley campus.

The measles outbreak is expected to continue for another two weeks as the second and third wave of the disease makes its way through the communities. Anyone who has symptoms or suspects they have contracted measles is encouraged to stay home until the symptoms are over.