Ontario is facing a significant increase in measles cases, according to new weekly data released by Public Health Ontario. The province has now reported 470 cases since the outbreak started in October, marking an alarming jump of 120 new infections within just a week.
This latest surge has led to 34 hospitalizations, with two individuals requiring intensive care treatment. Health officials noted that the majority of hospitalized patients, including one ICU patient, are unvaccinated children.
The outbreak remains concentrated primarily in Southwestern Ontario, with nearly half the cases in the Southwestern Public Health region. Grand Erie accounts for approximately 24% of total cases. Meanwhile, Huron Perth region, encompassing Stratford and Goderich, saw its share of cases jump from 3.7% to 9% in just one week, prompting local health authorities to designate it as an area of concern.
The measles outbreak is not isolated to Ontario, as rising cases have been reported across the country. Quebec currently has 40 cases, mostly concentrated in the Laurentides region, a popular ski destination. Health officials continue urging attendees of a recent Montreal Canadiens hockey game to watch closely for symptoms.
Alberta has reported 13 measles cases, primarily in the northern region. However, new cases have emerged in the southern community of Taber, traced to an infected traveller from Toronto who visited multiple locations.
In response to the escalating situation, Ontario has transitioned from biweekly updates to weekly reporting, while Alberta is now releasing daily updates on weekdays.
Measles, considered one of the world’s most contagious diseases by the World Health Organization, can linger in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours. Symptoms typically include fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes, and a characteristic rash that starts on the face and spreads across the body. Severe complications can include pneumonia, brain inflammation, and even death.