New Measles case confirmed in Ontario child, no school-related exposure related

The Brant County Health Unit (BCHU) has announced a confirmed case of measles in a local child, following recent travel to Europe. The child is currently receiving medical care in the hospital.

 

The BCHU is actively conducting an investigation and is in the process of notifying individuals who may have been in direct contact with the infected child.

 

Potential exposure to the measles virus may have occurred in several locations, including on Lufthansa Flight 6584 from London Heathrow to Pearson International Airport on February 23, 2024, Pearson International Airport – Terminal 1 on the same day, Brantford General Hospital’s Emergency Department later that evening, and McMaster Children’s Hospital’s Emergency Department on February 24, 2024. The health unit has clarified that there have been no school-related exposures connected to this case.

 

Individuals who suspect they may have been exposed are urged to check their vaccination records for the measles vaccine (MMR or MMRV) and consult their healthcare provider if uncertain about their immunization status. The BCHU advises monitoring for measles symptoms, which include a red rash, fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and fatigue. Those experiencing symptoms should contact their healthcare provider or the BCHU and avoid attending work or school.

 

Measles is an airborne disease, highly contagious, and can spread through direct contact with infected droplets or by simply breathing in air that contains the virus. Vaccination is the most effective prevention method, with two doses recommended for optimal protection.

 

Dr. Rebecca Comley, Medical Officer of Health at BCHU, emphasized the importance of vaccination: “Measles is a serious illness, but it is preventable. The measles vaccine (MMR) is 99 per cent effective after two doses. It’s crucial for everyone in Ontario to be fully vaccinated against measles, especially before international travel.”

 

The BCHU serves over 136,000 residents in the County of Brant and the City of Brantford, offering a range of programs and services aimed at improving public health and well-being, under the Health Protection and Promotion Act and the Ontario Public Health Standards.