Measles Outbreak in Ontario Continues to Grow

Public Health Ontario has reported that an additional 173 individuals have been diagnosed with measles in the province in the past week. This brings the total number of measles cases in Ontario to 1,795 since the outbreak began last October.

The weekly measles report from the health agency indicates that the virus is primarily spreading among individuals who have not been vaccinated. The majority of those affected by measles during this outbreak are infants, children, and adolescents.

Of the total cases, 129 individuals have required hospitalization, with 10 of them being admitted to the intensive care unit. The Southwestern Public Health unit, which includes Oxford County, Elgin County, and St. Thomas, has been hit the hardest with 98 of the new cases.

Measles has not been limited to Ontario, as several other parts of Canada, including Alberta, have also seen outbreaks. Alberta has reported more than 500 cases of measles since March.

It is crucial for individuals to ensure that they are up to date on their vaccinations to prevent the spread of measles and other preventable diseases. Vaccination not only protects the individual but also helps to create herd immunity, reducing the likelihood of outbreaks in the community.

Public Health Ontario continues to monitor the situation closely and urges residents to seek immunization to help control the spread of measles in the province.