“Over the last several weeks, we have seen the number of new measles cases rise to 173 bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Ontario to 350 since 2024, including 31 hospitalizations. This is the most measles cases Ontario has seen in over a decade. It is critical we work together to mitigate further spread of this vaccine-preventable disease.”
Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Kieran Moore has issued a statement following a rise in measles cases in Ontario with 195 cases reported since Feb. 27th.
A news release stated that over 96 per cent of cases in Ontario are among individuals who are unimmunized, or have unknown immunization status, and were exposed in their community or while travelling. A majority of Ontario’s cases are concentrated in southwestern Ontario among unvaccinated people.
According to Public Health Ontario, in 2025, all but five cases were associated with an ongoing multi-jurisdictional outbreak, and all five cases had a history of travel (i.e. acquired measles outside of Canada). Of these, three cases required hospitalization, all among children who were unimmunized. On October 18, 2024, exposure to a travel-related case in New Brunswick led to outbreaks of measles in New Brunswick and Ontario. While New Brunswick declared their outbreak over on January 7, 2025, Ontario continues to experience measles transmission, which has also led to cases of measles in Manitoba. According to Public Health Ontario, in the 705 region, 1 case was reported by North Bay Parry Sound District Health.
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory virus. Symptoms of measles include fever, a red blotchy rash, red watery eyes and cough. Immunization is the best protection against measles. For children and most adults born in or after 1970, this means receiving two doses of measles containing-vaccine.
Experts say that vaccination is the most effective way to limit the spread of measles. The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine has been in use for more than 50 years and is proven to be one of the safest and most effective vaccines available. All Ontarians should ensure themselves, and their children, are up to date on their vaccinations. Children who are fully immunized with two doses of the measles vaccine are nearly 100 per cent protected, with one dose estimated to be up to 95 per cent protective.
“As part of routine vaccination schedules, children should receive two doses of the measles vaccine, their first at 12 months and a second when they are between four to six years old,” says Dr. Moore. “If you are not sure about your immunization status, please contact your health care provider or your local public health unit.”
“If you think you or a family member has been exposed to measles, please contact your health care provider immediately,” Moore continues. “Before any visit, be sure to call ahead to let them know that you are coming and that you suspect that you may have measles so appropriate precautions can be taken.”
