Health Warning For Teens Headed To The Okanagan
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Teenagers between 15 and 19, who are headed to Okanagan for three weeks are being told to get immunized against meningitis. The warning for Northern Health and other health authorities across B.C. is being made following an outbreak in the Okanagan.
Health officials in the Okanagan declared an outbreak last week after 11 cases were recorded. That figure is more than double the number seen in a typical year. The situation prompted a massive vaccination program, which delivered the vaccine to more than 3,000 students in the Okanagan last week and a half.
Meningitis infects the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Meningococcal disease also causes blood infections. Cases can be serious and can result in long-term health problems or even death.
Northern Health says meningitis vaccinations became part of the regular immunization schedule for students in Grade 9 since 2016. Vaccinations can be set up through the Public Health Unit.
