The Eastern Ontario Health Unit (EOHU) is reminding parents to ensure their children’s routine immunizations are up to date as Ontario faces its largest measles outbreak in 30 years.
While no active cases have been reported in the EOHU region, the number of measles cases across the province more than doubled in late February, surpassing 140 infections within two weeks. Health officials say most of the cases involve individuals who were not immunized.
“The high number of measles cases in the province is a stark reminder of the importance of staying up to date on your routine immunizations,” said Dr. Paul Roumeliotis, Medical Officer of Health at the EOHU. “Measles is not the common cold. While the initial symptoms may be relatively mild, common complications include ear infections, pneumonia, and diarrhea. The most severe complications, while rare, include respiratory failure, inflammation and swelling of the brain, and death. The good news is that the vaccine is safe, effective, and greatly decreases the chances of catching measles and bringing it home with you.”
In Ontario, children receive two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine as part of the publicly funded immunization schedule. The first dose is administered on or after a child’s first birthday, with a second dose given between the ages of four and six.
The EOHU urges individuals who are not up to date on their vaccinations to contact their health care provider to receive any missing immunizations. Those without a health care provider can receive routine immunizations through the EOHU.
Anyone experiencing symptoms of measles or who believes they may have been exposed to the virus should contact their health care provider or the EOHU at 613-933-1375 or 1-800-267-7120.
