Updated March 18, 2024
UPDATED MEASLES RESOURCE: Public Health Ontario (PHO) has released an updated Measles: Information for Health Care Providers. This resource provides important information on immunization, laboratory testing and infection prevention and control practices and is intended for use by health care providers and public health units. It also reinforces the importance of maintaining up-to-date immunizations for measles, including considerations relating to travel.
In recent weeks, there has been an alarming increase in measles cases globally, with four active cases of measles identified in Canada, two of which are in Ontario. Given the dramatic rise in cases worldwide, health system partners in Ontario must be prepared for the continued importation of cases and potential outbreaks.
In consideration of the rise in cases and anticipated international travel over March break, it’s important that all health care providers:
- Support patients in receiving all routine vaccinations (including measles) according to the Publicly Funded Immunization Schedules for Ontario.
- In advance of any upcoming international travel, patients should be encouraged to make sure their vaccinations are up to date.
- In addition to routine immunizations, the following should be considered for those at higher risk of measles exposure:
- Infants six to 11 months of age who are travelling to areas with increased measles transmission should be immunized with one dose of MMR. Two additional doses are required on or after the first birthday.
- Adults 18 years of age or older who have previously received one dose of MMR should receive the second dose if they are health care workers, post-secondary students, planning to travel to areas with increased measles transmission, or based on the health care provider’s clinical judgement.
- Communicate with patients that vaccines are highly effective in preventing disease transmission, and provide vital protection in light of measles activity. This is especially important for those in communities with low coverage.
- Include measles in differential diagnoses, particularly in returning travellers with respiratory symptoms.
- Measles is a reportable disease, and any suspected cases should be promptly reported by health care providers to public health.Suspected measles cases should be placed under airborne precautions and tested. More information can be found on the Public Health Ontario Measles Diagnostic – PCR page.
- Measles should be suspected in returning travelers with a febrile illness and rash, or other signs and symptoms of measles, particularly in susceptible individuals.
- Serological testing may be indicated to determine immune status. More information can be found on the Public Health Ontario Measles Serology Testing page.
