News

January 25, 2025

Simcoe, Ont. – Grand Erie Public Health (GEPH) is investigating an additional confirmed case of measles in the community.

The newly confirmed case is a child resident of Haldimand-Norfolk, who is currently recovering at home. There are currently 10 confirmed cases of measles in the Grand Erie region (which includes Haldimand County, Norfolk County, Brantford, and Brant County).

GEPH is currently reaching out to individuals who may have been exposed to the measles virus through this case. Through our investigation, the GEPH has determined the public may have been exposed to the measles virus at the following locations, dates, and times:

• Bethel Baptist school, 4059 Highway 3 East, Simcoe, between the dates of January 20 – 21, 2025, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
• Grey Gretzky Medical Center, 422 Grey St., Brantford, on January 22, 2025, between the hours of 10:45 a.m. – 2:45 p.m.

GEPH advises anyone who believes they may have been exposed to the measles virus at these locations to 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.

How Measles Spreads and Symptoms
Measles is a highly contagious illness caused by a virus. 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.

Anyone experiencing symptoms should first contact their healthcare provider, or if not available, call GEPH:

• Brantford-Brant office: 519-753-4937 ext. 454
• Haldimand-Norfolk office: 519-426-6170 or 905-318-6623

For more information about measles, please visit www.bchu.org/measles  or www.hnhu.org/measles

Grand Erie Public Health (GEPH) is one of Ontario’s public health units. GEPH 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.