A Measles Crisis in Ontario

Over 1,000 confirmed cases of measles have sent shockwaves through Ontario, prompting a grassroots organization to raise the alarm. The Ontario School Safety (OSS) group is on the frontline, advocating for the safety of students and staff amid this growing health concern.

Urgent Call for Action

Mary Jo Nabuurs, media relations officer for OSS, expressed deep concern regarding the alarming rise in measles cases. She stated, "We're very worried about the increase in measles cases in recent weeks. Given how deadly this virus can be, schools and buses often act as hubs for spreading viruses into the wider community. It's crucial that the provincial government, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, and Public Health Ontario act swiftly to contain this outbreak."

Vaccination Alone Is Not Enough

OSS has penned an open letter underscoring the inadequacy of relying solely on vaccinations to ensure safety in schools. According to Nabuurs, "Vaccination rates are shockingly low, particularly among young children, and breakthrough infections are occurring in vaccinated individuals as well. Achieving herd immunity, which stands at 95%, will take time. Plus, measles is airborne and can remain infectious in the air for up to two hours. We need to take broader measures to reduce the spread of the virus."

Introducing a Vaccine-Plus Strategy

In response to the crisis, OSS is advocating for a comprehensive vaccine-plus strategy. This plan aims not only to boost vaccination rates but also to ensure healthy air quality in schools and on school buses. Nabuurs emphasized, "This strategy is not only feasible but fair, significantly reducing the risk of spreading measles. Many of the necessary tools for implementation are already at our disposal, supported by ample resources."

The Nature of Measles and Public Outreach

Measles is an incredibly contagious virus that thrives in the respiratory secretions of an infected person. It can spread through basic actions like breathing, talking, coughing, or sneezing. To combat this outbreak effectively, OSS is urging families to engage with their local MPPs, public health officials, and school boards to advocate for immediate action.

Raising Awareness and Taking Action

Nabuurs called for a robust public health campaign to educate individuals about the risks of measles, the importance of vaccinations, and the necessity for improved indoor air quality. She encouraged families to share their letter with anyone who could benefit from the information and to visit OSS's website and social media channels for insights on how healthy air can benefit students, the workforce, the healthcare system, and the economy in Ontario.