By The Canadian Press

Immunizations continue in Okanagan for meningococcal concerns

Dec 27, 2017 | 5:50 AM

VERNON — Health officials in the Okanagan are expanding a vaccination campaign aimed at curbing a meningococcal disease outbreak among teenagers in the region.

Interior Health declared the outbreak earlier this month and began vaccinating 15 to 19 year olds and students in grades nine through 12.

Medical health officer Doctor Karin Goodison says about 60 per cent of the target population has been vaccinated, and the health authority is now looking to target older teens, who she says are considered to be at the highest risk.

Eleven cases of the diseases have been recorded across the region so far this year.