Worst of all, the Waterloo region is currently experiencing an alarming spike in measles cases. Since the outbreak started in October, 78 confirmed cases and 22 probable cases have been reported. DPH action Public health officials are now moving urgently to address the outbreak that continues to grow. They’ve sponsored four area high schools as possible sites for public exposure this coming May. This alert comes on the heels of Guelph and the surrounding region being declared a Measles “risk area” in early May. Apart from underscoring the horrible toll on human life, it highlights the need for greater precautions.
Health officials are understandably alarmed by the ongoing measles outbreak. As a consequence, these countries are going to extraordinary lengths to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Waterloo—with seven school buildings on the chopping block—has had four schools flagged for concern. At the same time, three of Guelph’s public schools were listed as exposure sites throughout May. As the outbreak still presents a deadly threat, public health authorities are continuing to strongly recommend that all Americans get vaccinated and stay up to date on the latest public health guidance.
Vaccination Guidelines and Exclusion Periods
In light of the recent record high number of measles cases, public health officials have issued new vaccination guidelines. For cumulative children aged one to four years, the recommendation is to provide those children an earlier second dose of the measles vaccine. Adults born on or after 1970 should receive a second dose if they have not received one previously. Which is why it’s critically important to get up to date on vaccinations! Infants between six months and one year are now strongly advised to get one dose of the vaccine.
David Aoki, the region’s director of infectious disease and chief nursing officer, explained that these vaccinations are extremely important.
“If students have no doses [of vaccine] … they unfortunately have to be excluded for the entire 21 days,” – David Aoki
This exclusion period starts from the last day of exposure, which makes it even more critical to ensure everyone has up-to-date vaccination records. Aoki emphasized that the protocols that have already been put in place are incredibly important in protecting student health.
“That’s partly thanks to our annual running of the Immunization of School Pupils Act to make sure that students’ records are up to date,” – David Aoki
Local Health Officials Respond
Lynsey Slupeiks, corporate communications manager for the Region of Waterloo, voiced deep frustration about the persistent outbreak.
“Waterloo region continues to see an increase in cases and exposures locally, which is consistent with the trajectory of the provincial outbreak,” – Lynsey Slupeiks
This troubling development highlights the importance of community vigilance and adherence to public health guidance. Aoki continued to clarify the context, emphasizing that transmission is not confined to certain geographic works.
“I think what we’re seeing now is that there is a circulation throughout the region … not just in isolated geographical areas,” – David Aoki
Local health officials are stepping up to the plate to warn communities about the importance of measles prevention and vaccination. The increasing infections has been the impetus for this acute priority.
School Clinics and Community Support
Given these new developments, school districts around the region have been working with public health officials to ensure that students have easy access to the vaccine. However, clinics are busily planning vaccination events in schools. Support for this important initiative has helped make sure that children remain protected from measles.
Pointing out that one vaccine dose probably would not satisfy students hungry to rush back to the classroom immediately, Aoki suggested a phased-in approach. He said there would be exceptions for some students who meet certain criteria expected to be outlined in state law.
“A single dose will not allow them to get back into school … [but] there is a small number of students who may be able to return if they only had one dose, and we have provided clinics with the schools already to help service them,” – David Aoki
Health officials are doing everything within their power to curb the outbreak. Parents and guardians should always know their children’s vaccination status and make sure to get them vaccinated on time.
