A fresh measles case has Peel Public Health sounding the alarm after the virus potentially swept through a library, health clinics, and a hospital in Mississauga earlier this month. Confirmed on March 14, this latest infection marks the fourth in the Peel region this year, with two tied to international travel and two from local spread—though not linked to Ontario’s broader outbreak.
Health officials are zeroing in on four hotspots where exposure may have occurred: Hazel McCallion Central Library (March 7, 11:00 AM–6:00 PM), Multi-Specialty Med Clinic (March 8, 7:00 PM–March 9, 1:00 AM), Aboud Health Group (March 10, 4:30 PM–7:30 PM), and Credit Valley Hospital’s ER (March 11, 10:30 AM–7:55 PM). “If you were there, check your vaccination status—now,” Peel Public Health urged.
This year’s tally in Peel—four cases, including two unvaccinated kids—pales against Ontario’s 350 confirmed cases since 2024, with 170 added just last week and over 30 hospitalizations. The province’s outbreak, simmering since October 28, 2024, has hit the unvaccinated hardest, with 96% of cases tied to those without shots or unclear records, per Public Health Ontario.
Measles, a lung-rattling contagion, spreads like wildfire among the unprotected. Symptoms—think spiking fevers (38.8°C+), a telltale red rash, cough, runny nose, and watery eyes—can kick in 7 to 21 days post-exposure. Infants under one, pregnant individuals, and the immunocompromised face the gravest risks. “Stay home if you’re sick,” health officials warn. “No work, no school.”
With March break looming, Peel’s pushing the MMR vaccine hard, especially for travelers. “Anyone over six months heading abroad qualifies—get it,” they say. Spooked? Dig out your immunization records or call your doctor if symptoms strike. Ontario’s measles surge isn’t slowing, and Mississauga’s latest brush proves it’s closer than you think.