With measles cases rising across Ontario, including in the Grand Erie region, Grand Erie Public Health (GEPH) is urging residents to ensure their immunizations are up to date.
The majority of cases in Brantford-Brant-Haldimand-Norfolk involve unvaccinated individuals, particularly young children.
GEPH warns that measles, a highly contagious airborne virus, poses significant risks to those without immunity.
Two doses of a measles-containing vaccine provide strong, lasting protection. Children typically receive their first dose at 12 months and a second between four and six years of age.
In light of the outbreak, GEPH advises early vaccination for infants as young as six months and an expedited second dose for children aged one to four.
Adults born in or after 1970 with only one dose should receive a second.
To increase accessibility, GEPH is hosting community vaccination clinics:
- Monday, February 17, 2025, 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. – Burford Agriculture Hall, 6 Park Ave., Burford.
- Thursday, February 20, 2025, 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. – Grand Erie Public Health Simcoe office, 185 Robinson St., Simcoe.
- Monday, February 24, 2025, 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. – Vittoria Community Centre, 30 Oakes Blvd., Vittoria.
Dr. Malcolm Lock, acting medical officer of health for GEPH, emphasizes the importance of vaccination:
“Vaccination is the most effective way to protect against measles and its potentially serious complications. I urge everyone to check their immunization status and ensure they are up to date.”
GEPH, formed in January 2025 through the merger of Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit and Brant County Health Unit, continues to promote community health through prevention and education. For further clinic information, visit www.bchu.org/measles or www.hnhu.org/measles.
