Peel Public Health has issued a measles warning to families across Mississauga, Brampton, and Caledon, urging parents to ensure their children are fully vaccinated amid growing outbreaks in surrounding regions.
The alert, shared through a notice sent home with students, follows a sharp rise in cases in nearby areas such as Dufferin, Guelph, and Wellington, where 1,795 cases have been reported as of May 20. Peel Region itself has recorded six confirmed cases of measles so far in 2025, all unrelated to the ongoing outbreak.
Vaccine Urged for School-Aged Children
“Almost all infected children were unvaccinated,” the notice emphasizes, underscoring the importance of keeping vaccinations up to date to protect both individuals and the wider school community.
Measles is highly contagious, spreading through the air via coughs and sneezes. Early symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a distinctive rash. While most people recover in 2 to 3 weeks, serious complications can occur, including pneumonia, brain swelling, permanent hearing or vision loss, and even death.
Recommended Measles Vaccination Schedule
Peel Public Health advises following Ontario’s routine immunization schedule:
- 12 months: First dose of MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
- 4 to 6 years: Second dose as MMRV (includes varicella/chickenpox)
For those traveling outside Peel, additional guidance applies:
- Infants (6–11 months): Should receive an early MMR dose
- Children (1–4 years): Should receive their second dose if not already given, at least 4 weeks after the first
What to Do if Measles is Suspected
- Keep symptomatic children at home
- Call ahead before visiting a doctor or hospital
- Report vaccinations to Peel Public Health
Failure to provide proof of vaccination or immunity could result in children being excluded from school, camps, and extracurricular activities if exposed to measles.
For more information, parents and caregivers are encouraged to call Peel Public Health at 905-799-7700 or 1-888-919-7800, or speak with their health care provider.