Fraser Health Back to School Information
As children head back to school, parents face the familiar challenge of managing busy schedules, school routines and inevitably, health concerns.
Help set the stage for a healthy school year with Fraser Health’s Healthy Back to School Guide.
Fostering healthy routines for sleep, mealtimes and physical activity can support your child’s health and wellness. Learn more at Fraser Health’s School Health and Children and Youth pages.
Staying healthy during the school year isn’t just about routines—it’s also about protecting children from illnesses that can spread quickly in classrooms. An important preventable illness to be aware of right now is measles, which has been increasing globally, including here in Canada. Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose and red, inflamed eyes, followed by a rash. The rash usually starts on the face and neck and spreads to the chest, arms and legs.
Get vaccinated against measles
Immunization is the best way to prevent measles infection. Please check that you (if born in or after 1970) and your children have received at least two doses of a measles-containing vaccine. Find out how to check your immunization records here.
Measles-containing vaccines are available at many pharmacy locations, physician offices and at all public health units.
If your children have symptoms of measles, please keep them home.
If you or your child needs urgent care for something like a high fever, please inform your health care provider before you visit so they can take steps to prevent the spread of measles. Wear a mask and avoid using public transportation.
Need general health advice? Fast care for busy families with Fraser Health Virtual Care
Our Fraser Health Virtual Care registered nurses and dietitians have access to your personal health record and provide convenient, fast health advice and information for busy families. With options for phone or web chat consultations, families receive medical advice from nurses with emergency experience, saving time and, in many cases, avoiding unnecessary visits to clinics or emergency departments. Nurses can connect you directly with a health care provider at an Urgent and Primary Care Centre for various health needs, including questions about measles-like symptoms.
How to reach Fraser Health Virtual Care
- Dial 1-800-314-0999. For an interpreter, say your language in English.
- For web chat, go to fraserhealth.ca/virtualcare and click the blue chat bubble in the right corner to start.
Available 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m, seven days a week including statutory holidays (after hours Call 8-1-1)
Learn more about Fraser Health Virtual Care, other care options and more at: Fraserhealth.ca/VirtualCare