Grey Bruce Public Health Issues Measles Advisory

In a proactive move, Grey Bruce Public Health is alerting local communities about the steps to follow if a measles case surfaces in schools. This comes as part of their ongoing commitment to safeguarding public health.

No School Closures Needed!

Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Ian Arra, has reassured parents that thanks to impressive vaccination rates in the area, there’s currently no need for school closures. In fact, students and staff who are up-to-date with their vaccinations can continue attending school without interruption.

What Happens If a Case is Reported?

If a measles case is confirmed, those who are not fully vaccinated will face temporary exclusion from school. Dr. Arra emphasized that keeping vaccinated individuals within the school environment is a priority for public health safety.

Recognizing Measles Symptoms

Measles typically kicks off with fever, cough, runny nose, and a sore throat, followed by a distinct red rash that often begins on the face before spreading across the body within three to seven days of initial symptoms.

The Power of Vaccination!

Vaccination remains the frontline defense against measles. A single dose of the vaccine boasts a 93% effectiveness rate, while two doses push that number to nearly 100%. In stark contrast, over 90% of unvaccinated individuals could contract the virus if exposed.

Who is Immune?

Individuals born before 1970 are generally considered naturally immune to the virus. For them, school attendance will remain unaffected even if a case is reported.

Understanding the Risk

Recent data indicates that around 10% of staff and students could be at risk of exclusion if a measles case arises. Importantly, decisions about potential school closures due to low staffing levels aren’t in the hands of public health but fall to school administrators.

Stay Informed and Vaccinated!

As the health community navigates this potential threat, staying informed and ensuring vaccinations are up-to-date is crucial for everyone’s safety. Remember, a vaccinated community is a protected community!