Measles Cases Rise in Ontario: What You Need to Know

Measles Cases Rise in Ontario: What You Need to Know

Ontario is reporting 89 new measles cases this week, bringing the total provincial count to 661 since the outbreak began in the fall. While this is slightly lower than the 100+ cases reported last week, the numbers remain concerning.

Current Impact:

• 52 people hospitalized, including 3 in intensive care
• Majority of cases are in unvaccinated children
• Nearly 45% of cases are from Ontario’s southwestern public health unit

About Measles: Measles is one of the most contagious viruses in the world. It spreads easily through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes and can linger in the air or on surfaces for up to 2 hours.

Measles Symptoms

Symptoms of measles include Fever, Cough, Runny nose, Red, watery eyes. Red, blotchy rash (starts on the face, spreads to the body). In severe cases, it can cause pneumonia, brain inflammation, and even death.

Vaccination for Measles

Vaccination = Protection! The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella) is the best way to protect yourself and your community. Most people born after 1970 need 2 doses. People who received two doses of measles vaccine as children are protected for life. They do not ever need a booster dose.

Are you Protected from Measles?

Anyone born before 1957 is generally considered immune to measles. This means they are fully protected from measles for life and no additional vaccination is necessary. If you do not have presumptive evidence of immunity; that is, If you’re unsure whether you’re immune to measles, you should first try to find your vaccination records or documentation of measles immunity. If you do not have a record of measles immunity, you should get the MMR vaccine. There is no harm in getting another dose of MMR vaccine if you may already be immune to measles (or mumps or rubella).
If you’re unsure about your immunization status, talk to your doctor or local public health unit
Due to increased global measles activity, Ontario is seeing more “imported” cases. Travel-related exposures can spark outbreaks—check your vaccine status before traveling internationally.
⚠️ Feeling sick? Stay home. If you have measles symptoms, stay home and call your
healthcare provider or public health unit. Do not go to a clinic or ER without calling first—this helps prevent the spread to others.

Let’s all do our part to protect vulnerable people in our communities—vaccinate, stay informed, and take symptoms seriously.

Disclaimer: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied upon for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider first. Full Disclaimer.