Ontario’s public health units are increasingly deepening their efforts to combat a potential measles outbreak. This push follows the province’s announcement of 655 confirmed and probable cases so far this year. Since March 26, public health officials traced 89 more new cases of the highly contagious disease. This new wave is cause for concern, including because the current outbreak is linked to a travel-related case in New Brunswick.
Urban health officials urge vaccination and education. As the growth of this deadly disease starts to appear at a plateau, they are certain that these actions are very much needed to limit its rapid spread. The Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) vaccine, which contains a weakened version of the measles virus, has been highlighted as the most effective measure for prevention.
Understanding Measles and Its Risks
Measles is one of the most contagious diseases in the world. It’s highly contagious, easily transmitted between people who aren’t up to date on their vaccinations or people who have never contracted the disease before. As this OPC article outlines, contracting measles can have serious consequences. In Ontario, only three people have required intensive care as a result of complications from this illness.
Dr. Ninh Tran, the region’s medical officer of health, stated the importance of vaccination in stopping outbreaks at this critical time. He stated, “One of the most contagious illnesses globally, and currently the most effective way to safely prevent measles is through vaccination.”
The MMR vaccine is a key component of this prevention strategy. Such a live attenuated vaccine produces robust, durable, life-long immunity. It accomplishes that safely, in people with robust immune systems – those whom the disease wouldn’t seriously threaten. Health officials urge everyone who has not previously had measles or two doses of MMR to be vaccinated. This simple, proactive step is important for them to keep themselves — and their neighbors — safe and healthy.
Chatham-Kent’s Local Response
In the Chatham-Kent area, public health officials have confirmed just four new cases since March 24. The Chatham-Kent Public Health unit is focusing on educating the public about the vaccine and its role in preventing measles outbreaks.
Sarah Titmus, a public health official, noted, “What we do is we provide the most evidence-based information that we can so that people can make an informed decision as to whether a vaccine is right for them.” This method is intended to honor the concerns of the community and help make informed decisions about vaccination while supporting community members.
To better protect residents, the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance is providing inoculations to residents who are at greater risk of becoming infected with measles. Adam Topp, president and CEO of the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance, commented on their proactive measures: “We could see large groups in there and they wouldn’t have to come into the hospital, into any of our waiting rooms.”
The Importance of Vaccination
Health experts have long considered the MMR vaccine our most effective defense against a measles outbreak. Dr. Tran highlighted a significant difference between measles vaccination and other vaccines: “Unlike the flu or COVID vaccine, which is mainly to lessen the severity of an infection, two doses of measles-containing vaccine prevents the infection altogether.”
The renewed focus on vaccination is not a moment too soon, with new cases continuing to trickle in. Rachel Vaarkamp, a parent seeking vaccinations for her child, expressed her concern: “We don’t have a family doctor right now and realized that it was time to [get] his vaccinations and then seeing there’s been measles cases in the area, wanted to get it done for him.”
Public health officials are still reminding people to make sure that they and their children are up to date on their MMR vaccinations. Measles is one of the most contagious diseases we know, so it’s more important than ever to protect your community with vaccination.
