With measles cases on the rise across Ontario, including in the Grand Erie region, Grand Erie Public Health (GEPH) is urging families to ensure they are up to date with immunizations.
Measles is highly contagious, spreading through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. Unvaccinated individuals or those who have never had measles before are at high risk of infection.
The majority of measles cases in Brantford-Brant-Haldimand-Norfolk have occurred in unvaccinated individuals, particularly young children. In Ontario, two doses of a measles-containing vaccine provide strong and lasting immunity.
“Vaccination is the most effective way to protect against measles and its potentially serious complications. I urge everyone to check their immunization status and ensure they are up to date. If you or your family is not vaccinated, please contact your health care provider or attend one of our community clinics. Protecting our community starts with each of us taking the necessary steps to prevent the spread of measles,” said Dr. Malcolm Lock, acting Medical Officer of Health, Grand Erie Public Health.
Full vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself, your family, and those in our community against measles and its complications. Typically, children receive their first dose at 12 months of age and a second between four and six years of age. However, due to the current measles outbreak situation, the recommendation(s) are:
- Early vaccination for infants: A first dose of measles-containing vaccine can be given as early as six months of age. Two additional doses are needed after their first birthday.
- Early second dose for young children: Children between one and four years old who have already received one dose should receive their second dose as soon as possible, provided at least four weeks have passed since their first dose.
- Second doses for adults: adults born in and after 1970 with only one dose of measles-containing vaccine should receive a second dose. Individuals born before 1970 are generally considered immune due to past exposure. Anyone who is unsure of their vaccination status should contact their health care provider.
Individuals are encouraged to contact their primary care provider to arrange vaccination.
GEPH is also offering measles vaccination clinics, with the first few clinics scheduled for:
- Thursday, Feb. 20, 2025, from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Grand Erie Public Health Simcoe office, 185 Robinson St., Simcoe. To book an appointment and for details, visit www.hnhu.org/measles.
- Monday, Feb. 24, 2025, from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Vittoria Community Centre, 30 Oakes Blvd, Vittoria. To book an appointment and for details, visit www.hnhu.org/measles.
For more information on additional vaccination clinics and measles, including symptoms, prevention, and vaccination, visit www.bchu.org/measles or www.hnhu.org/measles.
