The number of confirmed measles cases in New Brunswick has jumped to 44, according to the Department of Health.

Spokesperson David Kelly said all of the cases are linked to an initial travel-related case first reported in late October.

All of the individuals are in the Zone 3 health region, which includes Fredericton and parts of the upper Saint John River Valley.

Kelly said more than 80 per cent of the cases to date are in people under the age of 19.

“We want to emphasize that ensuring individuals are immune to measles infection is the best way to protect yourself,” Kelly wrote in an email on Thursday.

“The measles vaccine is considered very effective at preventing infection, is safe, and has been in use for more than 50 years.”

Primary care providers and Public Health offices can offer the vaccine to eligible New Brunswickers.

Horizon Health is also planning a number of vaccine clinics in Fredericton, Woodstock and Stanley.