Public health officials are investigating two additional confirmed cases of measles in the Haldimand-Norfolk area, bringing the total number of cases in the Grand Erie region to 12. The affected area includes Haldimand County, Norfolk County, Brantford, and Brant County.
The latest cases involve two children who are recovering at home, with the source of infection still under investigation. Grand Erie Public Health (GEPH) is working to identify individuals who may have been exposed to the virus.
Health officials have confirmed a potential exposure site at Walsingham Christian School on 6th Concession Rd., Walsingham, between January 21 and 23 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Dr. Ninh Tran, Medical Officer of Health at Southwestern Public Health, confirmed that three additional measles cases have been reported in Southwestern Ontario since January 1, 2025, prompting the region to declare an outbreak.
“Our infectious disease team is at near capacity, managing the growing number of cases and tracking potential exposures,” said Tran. “We are also following up on individuals who may have come into contact with confirmed cases outside our region.”
Hospitals and emergency departments across the region have reported significant measles exposures, underscoring the highly contagious nature of the virus.
Measles is one of the most contagious infectious diseases, with a reproduction rate of 12 to 18, meaning one infected individual can spread the virus to a dozen or more unvaccinated people.
“We are reminding the public that vaccination is the best protection against measles,” said Dr. Malcolm Lock, Acting Medical Officer of Health for Grand Erie Public Health. “Even with one dose of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, immunity is about 85%, and with two doses, protection is nearly 100%.”
Public health officials are urging residents to check their immunization records and ensure they are up to date, particularly for:
- Children who may have missed routine vaccinations during COVID-19 disruptions
- Pregnant individuals
- Infants under one year of age
- People with medical conditions that prevent vaccination
Measles symptoms typically appear 7 to 21 days after exposure and may include:
- High fever
- Cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes
- Fatigue
- A red rash that starts on the face and spreads downward
Because measles spreads through airborne transmission and can linger in the air for up to two hours, health officials are urging those with symptoms to avoid visiting healthcare facilities in person without calling ahead.
“If you suspect measles exposure or symptoms, call ahead before visiting a hospital or clinic to allow staff to take necessary precautions,” Dr. Tran advised. “This helps prevent further exposure in waiting areas and healthcare settings.”
Dr. Lock warned that case numbers are expected to rise as public health continues its investigation, particularly in Haldimand-Norfolk, where most current infections are concentrated.
“This began as a small cluster among unvaccinated individuals, but with rising cases, we are now dealing with a full outbreak,” said Lock. “We strongly encourage residents to check their vaccination records and get immunized if needed.”
Public health units are updating exposure sites as new cases emerge. Residents concerned about potential exposure or vaccination status are advised to visit:
- Brant County Health Unit: www.bchu.org/measles
- Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit: www.hnhu.org/measles
- Southwestern Public Health: www.swpublichealth.ca/measles
Anyone who believes they may have been exposed and is not fully vaccinated is encouraged to contact their healthcare provider or local public health unit.
