Grand Erie Public Health (GEPH) has confirmed 21 cases of measles in the Grand Erie region, which includes Haldimand County, Norfolk County, Brantford, and the County of Brant. This marks an increase from the previously reported 19 cases.
The outbreak now includes 16 children and five adults, all of whom are currently recovering at home.
Dr. Malcolm Lock, Acting Medical Officer of Health for GEPH, stated that while some cases are linked to an initial infection from New Brunswick, others may have emerged separately.
“We are not quite sure how this arose,” Lock said in an interview with BrantBlog.
“There may be new cases that have emerged independently, and we are still working to determine their sources.”
GEPH has identified two newly confirmed cases in Norfolk County, both linked to previous exposures. Public health teams are actively investigating and following up with known contacts who may have been exposed to the measles virus.
Health officials have determined that individuals may have been exposed to the measles virus at the following locations:
- Family Practice Office, Roulston’s Pharmacy, 65 Donly Dr. N Suite B Unit 4, Simcoe – Jan. 28, 2025 (5 p.m. – 7:20 p.m.)
- Shoppers Drug Mart, 470 Norfolk St., Simcoe – Jan. 30, 2025 (10 p.m. – 12 a.m.)
- Best Western Hotel, 17565 Yonge St, Newmarket – Jan. 31, 2025 (2 p.m.) – Feb. 1, 2025 (11:30 a.m.)
- Magna Centre Arena, 800 Mulock Dr., Newmarket – Jan. 31, 2025 (11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.)
Individuals who visited these locations during the specified times and are not fully vaccinated are urged to contact their healthcare provider or local public health unit.
Measles is a highly contagious airborne virus that can remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left a space. Symptoms typically appear seven to 21 days after exposure and include fever, cough, red and watery eyes, fatigue, and a red rash that spreads from the face downward.
Hospitals and healthcare facilities across the region have been advised of the outbreak, and GEPH has implemented contact tracing efforts to notify individuals who may have been exposed. Public alerts have been issued for locations of concern.
Dr. Lock emphasized the importance of vaccination, explaining that one dose of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine provides approximately 85% immunity, while two doses provide nearly 100% protection. “Measles is preventable through vaccination, and we strongly encourage everyone to check their immunization status,” Lock said.
Health officials recommend that the following groups ensure they are fully vaccinated:
- Children who may have missed routine vaccinations
- Pregnant individuals
- Infants under one year of age
- Individuals with medical conditions preventing vaccination
Anyone experiencing measles symptoms is advised to call ahead before visiting a hospital or clinic to help prevent further spread.
Since January 1, 2025, three additional measles cases have been reported in Southwestern Ontario, prompting an outbreak declaration in that region. Dr. Ninh Tran, Medical Officer of Health for Southwestern Public Health, confirmed that public health teams are actively tracking cases and following up with individuals who may have been exposed.
“This outbreak started as a small cluster, but case numbers continue to rise,” Lock said. Public health officials expect additional cases in the coming days, particularly in Haldimand-Norfolk.
For more information on measles exposure and immunization, residents can visit:
- Brant County Health Unit: www.bchu.org/measles
- Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit: www.hnhu.org/measles
- Southwestern Public Health: www.swpublichealth.ca/measles
Grand Erie Public Health (GEPH) was established in January 2025 following the merger of the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit and the Brant County Health Unit. As one of Ontario’s public health agencies, GEPH is dedicated to promoting and protecting the health and well-being of communities within Brantford, the County of Brant, Haldimand County, and Norfolk County.
GEPH’s work is guided by the Health Protection and Promotion Act and the Ontario Public Health Standards, ensuring that programs and services meet the highest standards of public health practice. The agency remains committed to fostering healthy communities through prevention, education, and health promotion, while working closely with local partners to address the unique needs of diverse populations.
Photo: Dr. Malcolm Lock, Acting Medical Officer of Health for Grand Erie Public Health (GEPH), participates in a virtual discussion with BrantBlog, addressing public health initiatives and community health concerns
