On a wider scale, Southwestern Public Health has seen a record-high 343 measles cases since last October. This figure is approximately 40 percent of the 816 cases logged for all of Ontario. Their health unit encompasses both Oxford and Elgin counties, plus the cities of Woodstock and St. Thomas. It was the first state to raise alarm about the rapid spread of COVID-19, now experiencing a record high rate of infection at 138.4 cases per 100,000 residents. This number is shocking when compared with the provincial average of only 5.2 cases per 100,000 people.
We all know that measles cases have skyrocketed in recent months. This spike comes on the heels of a New York State health official travel warning, stating that “measles is just a car ride away.” Vaccination, awareness key to slowing spread The advisory highlights the need for vaccination and awareness as disease continues to spread.
Vaccination Efforts Intensified
In response to the outbreak, Southwestern Public Health has stepped up its vaccination campaign. From their outreach efforts between January 1 and April 8, they provided 940 measles vaccinations. This is a staggering jump of 130 percent from last year at this time. Of all those vaccinated, just 13 of them were children. This underscores the immediate need to increase immunization among younger populations.
Alex Summers, medical officer of health at Southwestern Public Health added, “Vaccination continues to be our top public health advice.” The health unit is reminding people that two doses of the measles vaccine are 99 per cent effective at preventing infection. This proactive approach is intended to prevent additional spread within the community.
Hospitalizations and Demographic Insights
From the 2nd of April, the total of measles cases has increased by 32 more cases. From those total positive cases, 31 people have needed to be hospitalized at any point during their illness. Alarmingly, colored in red as alarmingly, 74 percent of those infected are patients 18 and younger. This troubling figure speaks volumes to the danger of children in the area.
Ninh Tran, Southwestern Public Health’s medical officer of health, reiterated that vaccination is the best line of defense against the measles virus. Health officials are calling on residents to act urgently. The incidence rate in your area is 4.5 times higher than the rest of Ontario, so it’s very important to take precautions to protect yourself and your family.
Looking Forward
As for the current outbreak, Southwestern Public Health is still monitoring the situation. They are out there proactively looking to raise awareness and encourage residents to get vaccinated. The health unit’s goal is to stop the outbreak before it gets any worse, and officials say they can only do this if the community works together.
