News

January 10, 2025

Simcoe, Ont. – Grand Erie Public Health (GEPH) has received confirmation of a case of measles in an adult resident of Haldimand-Norfolk. The individual is currently recovering at home. The infection source for this individual is unknown at this time.

GEPH is currently investigating and following up with known contacts who may have been exposed to the measles virus through this individual.

At this time, our investigation has determined that those at the following locations may have been exposed to the measles virus:

• Courtland Old Colony Church on December 29 from 9:45 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Delhi Community Health Centre Walk-in Clinic on January 4 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.
• Norfolk General Hospital – Emergency Department on January 5 between the hours of 3:30 p.m. and 6:45 p.m.

Anyone who believes they may have been exposed to the measles virus should do the following:

• • Vulnerable individuals with a weakened immune system, including infants, and pregnant individuals should contact their healthcare provider promptly. 
    Individuals at higher risk, including infants less than 12 months of age, pregnant individuals who have not received two doses of a measles-containing vaccine, and those with compromised immune systems, may be eligible to receive a medication called immune globulin within six days of exposure. The immunoglobulin can prevent or reduce the severity of an infection. These populations are encouraged to contact their healthcare provider by phone to discuss treatment options prior to attending a clinic for assessment in-person.
  • Check vaccination records to ensure protection from measles. 
    Measles is prevented by vaccination. Individuals should check their immunization record to confirm they and their family members are up to date with their measles vaccinations (MMR or MMRV). Two doses of the measles containing vaccine (administered at least four weeks apart) is generally recommended for anyone born in or after 1970. In general, those born before 1970 are considered protected against measles. Those who are unsure of their vaccination status are asked to check with their healthcare provider. In Ontario, the current routine immunization schedule includes two doses of measles containing vaccine before the age of 7. The first dose of the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella) is administered at 12 months, followed by a second dose of the MMRV vaccine (which also includes varicella) between the ages of 4 and 6. For infants aged 6 to 11 months who are traveling outside of Canada, one dose of the MMR vaccine may be given.
  • Monitor for symptoms of measles. 
    Watch for symptoms of measles for 21 days after exposure – even if up to date with their measles vaccinations. Anyone experiencing symptoms should contact their healthcare provider as soon as possible to discuss follow-up care and should not attend work or school. Individuals concerned about symptoms should call their healthcare provider before visiting, ensuring they inform them of possible exposure to measles

Measles is a highly contagious illness caused by a virus. The virus is spread easily from person to person – more than 90 per cent of persons exposed at home to a child with measles will catch it.

Measles virus is an airborne disease that is spread simply by breathing in air that contains the measles virus. The measles virus can live in the air for up to two hours when a person has coughed or sneezed. It may also be spread by direct contact with the nose or throat droplets of an infected person.

Symptoms of measles include:

• red rash
• fever
• cough
• runny nose
• red eyes
• fatigue

A person with measles is contagious from four days before to four days after the rash appears. Symptoms may start around 10 days after exposure but can start anywhere from seven to 21 days after exposure. Symptoms generally last for one to two weeks.

There is no treatment for measles. Vaccinations are highly effective in preventing the virus’ spread. Children should be immunized with the measles vaccine (MMR) as soon as possible after their first birthday and receive a booster before starting school.

Anyone experiencing symptoms should first contact their healthcare provider, or if not available, call GEPH’s Haldimand-Norfolk office at 519-426-6170 or 905-318-6623. For more information about measles, please visit our website.

Quote:

“Measles is a serious illness, but it is preventable. Studies show that the measles vaccine (MMR) is 99 per cent effective in preventing measles after two doses. Measles cases have been on the rise provincially and it is important that our community is aware it is circulating and how to spot it.”

Dr. Rebecca Comley, Acting Medical Officer of Health, Grand Erie Public Health

Grand Erie Public Health (GEPH) is one of Ontario’s regional public health units. We formed in January 2025 when the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit and Brant County Health Unit merged. We are dedicated to promoting and protecting the health and well-being of communities within the County of Brant, City of Brantford, Haldimand County, and Norfolk County. Our work is guided by the Health Protection and Promotion Act and the Ontario Public Health Standards, ensuring that our programs and services meet the highest standards of public health practice. We are committed to fostering healthy communities through prevention, education, and health promotion, while working in collaboration with local partners to address the unique needs of our diverse populations.

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