On Tuesday, Quebec public health confirmed that 11 cases of measles had been declared in the Laurentians, Montreal and Laval. This is the second measles outbreak in Quebec since the start of 2024; the first which lasted four months accumulated 51 cases.
Babies under 1 year of age, unvaccinated pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of developing complications from measles. Complications include pneumonia, ear infections, persistent diarrhea, loss of sight or hearing and in 1 in 3000 cases the disease can lead to death.
The AQPP invites adults born since 1980 who have not received two doses of measles vaccine as well as any other person not considered protected to be vaccinated free of charge at a pharmacy.
On the other hand, flu viruses will circulate more and more in the coming weeks in Quebec. The influenza epidemic was declared in the country at the end of December and the peak of the season has not yet been reached. The AQPP reminds that there is always time for Quebecers to protect themselves against respiratory viruses by being vaccinated free of charge by a pharmacist.
These health professionals can also provide antiviral treatment for people who obtain a positive result from a COVID-19 or Influenza virus screening test and who are at risk of complications.
The province’s emergency rooms were still very busy on Tuesday. At the start of the afternoon, the occupancy rate for all emergency rooms stood at 133%. To try to relieve this resource, the AQPP emphasizes that it is possible to consult a pharmacist for several minor conditions such as shingles, allergic conjunctivitis, acne, certain fungi, hemorrhoids, heartburn, Lyme disease, etc.
Health
