An outbreak of measles is spreading in the Fraser Valley.

Fraser Health warned the public today (March 13) that cases are now being reported in Chilliwack and Agassiz, outside of "previous school and religious group areas" .

"It is not necessary to attend a medical centre for testing to confirm measles during an outbreak unless you are quite sick," Dr. Paul Van Buynder, chief medical health officer for Fraser Health, stated in a news release. "We know there is measles circulating and laboratory confirmation is not necessary. However, if you are seriously ill, please see a doctor after warning them you are coming."

On March 8, the regional health authority advised the public of a measles outbreak at a Chilliwack school serving a community with low immunization rates.

The disease has put one child in hospital. 

According to Van Buynder, getting two doses of the measles vaccine is the best way to protect oneself from the disease.

Today's release states: "Arrangements are being made to distribute increased measles vaccine to general practitioners and pharmacies in the Fraser East region (Abbotsford, Mission, Chilliwack, Agassiz, Harrison Hot Springs and Hope). Fraser Health is requesting that older children and adults requiring immunization access the vaccine through one of these health care providers.

"Children under the age of 5 years are most at risk of serious disease and need to obtain the vaccine from a general practitioner or a public health clinic.

"Special vaccination clinics in Chilliwack and Agassiz are being organized for early next week and announcements regarding their availability will be made on the Fraser Health website."

According to the B.C. Centre for Disease Control website, measles is caused by a virus and is "highly contagious".

"Complications and death can result from a measles infection, most commonly in infants less than 12 months old and in adults," the site says.