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2w ago

Ontario reports first death as measles outbreak tops 2,000 cases

Low immunization rates are fueling the outbreak, leading health officials to urge expectant parents to confirm their MMR protection.

Southwestern Public Health building (Derek Ruttan/The London Free Press)
A dose of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination awaits the next patient during a vaccine clinic at Southwestern Public Health in St. Thomas, Ont. on Tuesday, March 4, 2025.THE CANADIAN PRESS/ Geoff Robins
Dr. Kieran Moore, Ontario's chief medical officer of health, announced the death of an infant from measles.
Measles symptoms can include a fever, a cough, a runny nose and red eyes, as well as a blotchy red rash. Complications can include inflammation of the brain, pneumonia and death.

Overview

  • A premature infant in southwestern Ontario who contracted measles in utero from an unvaccinated mother has died, marking the first fatality linked to the outbreak.
  • Since October 2024, the province has recorded 2,009 measles cases, including 1,729 confirmed and 280 probable infections alongside 140 hospitalizations.
  • Southwestern Ontario remains the hardest‑hit region with 725 reported cases as of June 3.
  • Health authorities report that the vast majority of infections involve individuals who are unvaccinated or whose immunization status is unknown.
  • Officials emphasize that two doses of the MMR vaccine provide nearly 100 percent protection and are urging all eligible residents, especially those planning pregnancy, to update their immunization.