Measles Alert: A Growing Concern in London!

As measles cases surge in areas around London, the Middlesex-London Health Unit is sounding the alarm! Parents with children under five are being strongly urged to move up their vaccination schedules.

While the risk remains low in Middlesex County and London, officials are aware that frequent travel for work and family visits across Southwestern Ontario could heighten exposure. To protect your little ones, it’s crucial to act now!

What Do You Need to Know About Vaccination?

For infants aged six to eleven months, a single dose of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine is recommended, followed by two more doses after their first birthday.

For children aged one to four, the second dose should be administered promptly, at least four weeks after the first dose. Even adults born on or after 1970 are advised to get a second dose!

A New Approach: A Faster Vaccine Schedule!

This new guidance from the health unit contrasts with Ontario’s traditional immunization schedule, which typically recommends MMR vaccination at age one and again between four and six.

Dr. Joanne Kearon, Middlesex-London’s associate medical officer of health, emphasizes, "Vaccination is your best defense against measles. That’s why we’re advocating for an accelerated vaccine schedule, starting with infants aged six to 12 months."

The Fight Against Measles: Parent Power!

Parents looking to accelerate their children’s vaccination are encouraged to reach out to their healthcare providers for guidance. This push for early vaccination comes as Middlesex-London reports 15 new measles cases since April 30, with a total of 43 cases since the initial outbreak began on March 10.

Most cases are linked to unvaccinated communities, underscoring the necessity of widespread vaccination.

State of Emergency: Southern Ontario on High Alert!

Meanwhile, Southwestern Public Health, the epicenter of Ontario’s outbreak, recently reported a staggering 73 new cases within a week—its highest weekly count since the outbreak began.

As of now, the Southwestern region accounts for 524 cases, a whopping 35% of Ontario’s total 1,440 reported cases.

Vaccination: The Ultimate Protection!

Dr. Ninh Tran, medical officer of health, emphasized that unvaccinated school-age children comprise the bulk of cases, further proving the efficacy of the vaccine.

In a recent interview, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, Kieran Moore, echoed the critical importance of vaccination. "Nothing beats the effectiveness of two doses of this safe and effective vaccine."

Measles symptoms, including a red rash, fever, cough, and serious complications like pneumonia, can be devastating. Don't wait—vaccinate!