What is measles and why is it dangerous?
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that can cause serious complications, such as pneumonia, brain inflammation, and death. Measles can spread through the air and by direct contact with an infected person. Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.
Measles can be prevented by vaccination, which is safe and effective. The measles vaccine is usually given as part of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, which also protects against two other diseases. The MMR vaccine is recommended for all children at 12 months of age and a second dose at 18 months or before starting schoo.
Why are measles cases increasing in Ontario and abroad?
According to Ontario’s top doctor, Dr. Kieran Moore, there are currently four active cases of measles in Canada, two of them in Ontario — in Toronto and Peel Region, specifically. These cases are linked to travel to countries where measles is circulating, such as Europe, Africa, and Asia.
Dr. Moore sent a memo to public health units on Tuesday, warning them to prepare for possible measles outbreaks given the “dramatic rise” in cases in other parts of the world. He said that while measles is no longer common in Canada, outbreaks can happen when unvaccinated or otherwise susceptible people travel to and from countries where the virus is circulating.
He also said that with many people travelling over March break, health-care providers should encourage patients to make sure their immunizations are up to date. He also recommended that some who are at higher risk of exposure — such as those travelling to areas with increased transmission — receive an additional dose, or an early dose in the case of infants.
How can Ontario prevent and control measles outbreaks?
Dr. Moore urged public health agencies to maintain a focus on ensuring people are up to date with vaccinations, communicate the effectiveness of vaccines, and proactively publicize new cases. He also asked health-care providers to consider measles in their differential diagnoses, particularly in patients returning from travel who show respiratory symptoms.
Public health agencies are also responsible for identifying and contacting people who may have been exposed to measles cases, and offering them vaccination or immune globulin, a substance that can boost immunity. They also have to monitor and report any suspected or confirmed cases of measles to the provincial authorities.
The public can also play a role in preventing and controlling measles outbreaks by following these steps:
- Check your immunization records and make sure you and your family are up to date with the MMR vaccine. If you are not sure, contact your health-care provider or local public health unit.
- If you are planning to travel, especially to countries where measles is common, consult your health-care provider or a travel clinic at least six weeks before departure. You may need an additional or early dose of the MMR vaccine, depending on your age and vaccination history.
- If you have symptoms of measles, such as fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, or rash, stay home and isolate yourself from others. Call your health-care provider or local public health unit and tell them about your symptoms and travel history. Do not go to a clinic or hospital without calling ahead, as you may infect others.
- If you have been exposed to someone with measles, or have received a notification from public health, follow their instructions and advice. You may need to get vaccinated or receive immune globulin, depending on your situation.
Measles is a serious and preventable disease that can cause outbreaks in Ontario and abroad. The best way to protect yourself and others is to get vaccinated with the MMR vaccine and follow public health guidelines. By doing so, you can help eliminate measles and save lives.
