Health Experts Warn Unvaccinated to Avoid Large Gatherings

As the number of confirmed measles cases in Manitoba rises, health experts are urging individuals who are not vaccinated against the disease to refrain from attending large public gatherings. This warning follows reports that attendees of the AG Days indoor farm show in Brandon, held from January 20 to 22, 2024, may have been exposed to the virus. The event attracted approximately 35,000 visitors, heightening concerns about potential transmission.

Potential Exposure and Health Risks

Those who frequented hotels, restaurants, and shops in Brandon during the three-day event are also at risk of exposure, according to Manitoba public health. Dr. Philippe Lagacé-Wiens, a medical microbiologist at St. Boniface Hospital, emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, “In a closed space, 90 per cent of people who are susceptible will catch measles if there’s a person who’s infectious and goes into that room.” This underscores the critical need for caution among unvaccinated individuals.

Measles symptoms may take weeks to manifest, allowing an infected person to unknowingly spread the virus. Dr. Lagacé-Wiens remarked on the gravity of the situation: “This chain of transmission going downstream is very concerning.” January marked the highest monthly count of confirmed measles cases in Manitoba since the outbreak began in February 2025.

The current outbreak significantly increases the likelihood of exposure for unvaccinated individuals, particularly in crowded environments. “The really big message is if you’re not vaccinated against measles or you have any kind of measles-like symptoms, don’t go to these festivals,” he advised, urging event organizers to communicate this message effectively.

Community Response and Vaccination Challenges

Angela Rasmussen, a virologist at the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization at the University of Saskatchewan, highlighted that herd immunity can no longer provide protection for unvaccinated individuals. “The only opportunity to prevent infection risks is to minimize the chance of exposure,” she stated, emphasizing the need for vulnerable populations, including newborns and immunocompromised children, to avoid large gatherings.

Rasmussen expressed regret over the decisions parents must make regarding vaccination, attributing the situation to declining vaccination rates. Public health organizations face the ongoing challenge of combating misinformation surrounding vaccines, which complicates efforts to increase immunization rates.

Despite the rising number of cases, Dr. Lagacé-Wiens noted that the outbreak has not yet necessitated restrictions or cancellations of public events. He stated, “If we start to see situations where infants are cramming in intensive care units… we might start to see public health pushing for reducing events.” Currently, the focus remains on encouraging vaccination as the primary method to manage the outbreak.

Brandon Mayor Jeff Fawcett remarked that the city is monitoring the situation but has not observed a significant rise in local cases. He credited high immunization rates, partly due to the community’s experience during a previous measles outbreak in the 1980s. “Our parents didn’t think twice about making sure we were taken care of by our science,” he noted.

As the city follows the guidance of Manitoba health authorities, officials are promoting vaccination availability and advising residents to remain vigilant for symptoms. Mayor Fawcett affirmed that restrictions would only be implemented if health officials deem them necessary, stating, “We do have other events going on, and we’re not going into an aggressive approach to it.”

The call for increased vaccination is urgent as public health experts warn that without substantial improvements in immunization rates, uncontrolled measles transmission could persist for an extended period. Dr. Lagacé-Wiens cautioned, “If people don’t roll up their sleeves quite literally and get vaccinated, it’s always a possibility.”

The situation remains fluid, and health authorities are committed to finding effective strategies to tackle misinformation and enhance vaccination rates in the community. As this outbreak unfolds, the emphasis on preventive measures and public awareness will be critical in safeguarding public health.