Ontario's measles case total reaches 572, reflecting an increase of over 100case

Ontario's measles case total reaches 572, reflecting an increase of over 100 cases in the last week.

A vial of the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine is displayed at the Lubbock Health Department in Lubbock, Texas, on February 26, 2025.

The number of measles cases in Ontario continues to rise, with more than 100 new cases reported in the past week.

Public Health Ontario has confirmed 572 cases, both confirmed and suspected, since the outbreak commenced in October, marking an increase of 102 cases since March 20.

Currently, 42 individuals are hospitalized, including two who require intensive care.

The outbreak remains concentrated primarily in the Southwestern and Grand Erie public health units, but it has also extended to Waterloo and Lambton. In Chatham-Kent, the number of cases has nearly doubled to 39 within the past week, while Huron Perth reports 55 individuals affected.

Other provinces are also observing outbreaks, albeit with lower case numbers; Alberta has reported 18 diagnosed cases, predominantly among minors, while Quebec's count remains steady at 40 cases since last week.

Measles is recognized as one of the most contagious diseases globally. According to the World Health Organization, the virus can survive in the air or on contaminated surfaces for up to two hours.

The illness typically starts with symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes, followed by a red, blotchy rash that begins on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. Complications from the virus can include pneumonia, brain inflammation, and even death.
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