Vaccinations

A measles outbreak is unfolding in Ontario, and health officials are urging parents to ensure their children are vaccinated. With cases rising across the province, the highly contagious virus is finding gaps in community immunity—gaps that could put infants, immunocompromised individuals, and unvaccinated children at risk.

Measles isn’t just a rash and fever; it can lead to severe complications like pneumonia, brain swelling (encephalitis), and even death. The good news? Vaccination works. The MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) vaccine is over 97% effective after two doses and has been a pillar of public health for decades.

Unfortunately, declining vaccination rates have given measles a path to resurgence. Many cases are linked to international travel, where the virus spreads rapidly among unprotected individuals. The best defense is simple: Check your child’s vaccination status and book their MMR shot if they’re due.

Public health experts stress that herd immunity—where enough people are vaccinated to stop the virus from spreading—relies on at least 95% coverage. The more people delay or refuse vaccines, the more vulnerable communities become.

The takeaway? Measles is preventable, but only if we take action. Protect your child, your community, and those most at risk. Vaccinate.

Read more on Ontario measles cases more than double over last 2 weeks, 31 hospitalizations reported via CBC News.

Where to get immunized in British Columbia: https://immunizebc.ca/immunization-basics/where-get-immunized

Image via CDC.