Vaccination efforts increased in parts of Ontario as measles outbreaks grow

Ontario’s Ministry of Health is urging health units in the province to ramp up efforts in administering measles vaccines as outbreaks continue to escalate. The southwestern region has been particularly hard hit, with 92 confirmed cases of measles since the beginning of the year, primarily affecting unvaccinated individuals, especially children.

Southwestern Public Health (SWPH) and Grand Erie Public Health (GEPH) have been at the forefront of managing the outbreaks, with SWPH reporting 35 cases and GEPH reporting 57 cases. Dr. Ninh Tran, SWPH’s Medical Officer of Health, emphasized the importance of vaccination, stating that measles is a preventable illness that can have serious consequences if not contained.

Dr. Malcolm Lock, GEPH’s Medical Officer of Health, highlighted the need for community members to stay home if infected and stressed the significance of vaccination in preventing the spread of measles. Both health units have been working tirelessly to track and contain the outbreaks, issuing public notices and providing vaccination clinics to curb the spread of the virus.

The outbreaks have primarily affected unvaccinated individuals, with children bearing the brunt of the cases in both regions. In response to the escalating situation, Ontario’s Ministry of Health has advised SWPH and GEPH to implement changes to their vaccination schedules, including expanding eligibility for infants aged 6 to 11 months and accelerating second doses for children under four years of age.

Vaccines that protect against measles are readily available through primary care providers and community clinics established by the health units. Officials have urged anyone born in or after 1970 to ensure they are vaccinated to protect themselves and others from the highly contagious disease.

In the event of infection, officials recommend staying home unless seeking medical attention is absolutely necessary. If medical attention is required, individuals are advised to wear a medical-grade mask, call ahead to the clinic or hospital, and take precautions to minimize the risk of spreading the virus.

Both SWPH and GEPH have dedicated webpages for residents to stay informed about possible exposure sites and vaccination opportunities. It is crucial for everyone to stay vigilant and take proactive measures to prevent further spread of measles in the community.