Measles outbreaks spark concern over rare ‘horrific’ neurological disorder
The measles outbreak in Ontario has been a major cause for concern for health professionals like Dr. Michelle Barton, who heads up the pediatric infectious disease team at London Health Sciences Centre children’s hospital. She has been working tirelessly to contain the damage caused by the highly-infectious disease, especially among children hospitalized with the virus.
According to Barton, the situation is particularly distressing when children with suppressed immune systems, such as those receiving chemotherapy, contract measles. If they do not get to the hospital quickly enough, the outcome could be fatal. This is a stark reminder of the importance of vaccinations in preventing such outbreaks and protecting vulnerable populations.
The outbreak in Ontario is part of a larger trend across Canada, with provincial health authorities reporting a total of 914 cases of measles so far this year. This is the highest number of cases since measles was eradicated more than 25 years ago. The bulk of these cases have been reported in Ontario, with Public Health Ontario detailing 804 confirmed and probable cases.
The rise in measles cases in southwestern Ontario has been linked back to a travel-related case in New Brunswick last fall, sparking a multi-jurisdictional outbreak across the country. In Alberta, every zone in the province now has measles, prompting concerns of a significant outbreak. Pediatricians and immunologists are closely monitoring the situation, fearing that deaths from measles could occur if the outbreak is not contained.
In the United States, the situation is equally alarming, with two unvaccinated children dying of measles in Texas. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 712 cases of measles so far this year, with 97% of cases occurring in individuals who are either unvaccinated or have an unknown vaccination status.
Measles is a highly infectious disease that can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, swelling of the brain, and even rare neurological conditions like subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE). SSPE can occur years after a child has recovered from measles, causing cognitive and motor impairments that can eventually lead to death.
Despite the risks associated with measles, the measles vaccine is considered very safe and highly effective. Vaccination uptake in some communities in Alberta has dropped as low as 50%, leaving many people unprotected from measles. Health professionals are urging parents to vaccinate their children to prevent further outbreaks and protect vulnerable populations.
In conclusion, the measles outbreak in Ontario and across Canada serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vaccinations in preventing the spread of infectious diseases. Health professionals like Dr. Michelle Barton are working tirelessly to contain the outbreak and prevent further complications. Vaccination is a crucial tool in protecting communities and ensuring the health and well-being of vulnerable populations.
