Measles outbreaks are spreading across Southern Ontario, prompting public health warnings and calls for vaccinations. Health officials are particularly concerned about the number of cases affecting children and the risk of exposure within healthcare settings.
The Middlesex-London Health Unit issued multiple exposure alerts following confirmed measles cases at hospitals, including the Children’s Hospital at London Health Sciences Centre and Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital, between January 19 and 28. Those who attended the emergency departments during specified times may have been exposed to the highly contagious virus. "Across the province, there has been an uptick in measles cases, largely pediatric. This has led to multiple exposures within healthcare settings as people seek care," said Joanne Kearon, associate medical officer of health.
Attendees at emergency room waiting rooms—one of which spanned late January 24 to early January 25—are urged to watch for symptoms such as high fever, cough, and the characteristic red, blotchy rash. Symptoms can appear up to 21 days after exposure, highlighting the need for vigilance.
Further complicacy arises from reports of nearly 20 confirmed cases linked to outbreaks declared by communities neighboring London, including Grand Erie Public Health and Southwestern Public Health. The Grand Erie Public Health unit confirmed 16 cases this week, predominantly affecting children, with concern stemming from rapid community transmission. Dr. Malcolm Lock, acting medical officer of health for Grand Erie, elaborated, “I can't stress how contagious this disease is and we should take as many precautions as we can.”
Localities such as Brantford and Norfolk reported different exposure levels, with warnings issued for Bethel Baptist School and the Grey Gretzky Medical Centre. Officials are now reinforcing the need for vaccinations, which can significantly mitigate the disease’s spread. Access to measles vaccines and the knowledge of one’s immunization history is now more necessary than ever.
The highly contagious nature of measles means it can spread rapidly, especially among unvaccinated individuals. Dr. Theresa Tam, Canada's Chief Public Health Officer, has voiced concerns about the climbing infection rates: “Measles can spread very quickly — 90 percent of people who are not vaccinated or haven't had measles before can become infected if they are near someone with the disease.”
Vaccination remains the best defense against outbreaks; studies show one dose of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine offers 85 percent immunity, which increases to 100 percent with the recommended two doses. Public Health Ontario highlights the rarity of measles cases thanks to high vaccination coverage, but the situation is shifting as vaccination rates decline.
Health experts assert the importance of proactive measures, advising individuals who suspect they may be infected to isolate themselves and consult healthcare providers beforehand. Dr. Ninh Tran, another medical officer of health, emphasizes the necessity for people to not visit healthcare facilities without alerting staff, to curb potential exposure to others.
Heightened community awareness is imperative to address declining vaccination rates. Dr. Lock and Dr. McGeer, infectious disease specialists, are advocating for improved public messaging. Dr. McGeer pointed out, “One of the really sad things about the pandemic is... vaccines are the most important thing... critically important for preserving our children's lives and adult lives.” The specialists agree on the urgent need to counter misinformation surrounding vaccines, especially as it has spread following the disruptions caused by COVID-19.
With preventative measures becoming increasingly necessary, local health authorities call for community action: review vaccination status, avoid exposure to high-risk settings if unvaccinated, and participate actively during outbreak announcements. The battle against measles hinges on collective awareness, vaccination adherence, and diligent public health efforts.