Health units want summer camps to proactively monitor for measles
Huron Perth Public Health is urging summer day camps and programs to take precautions to prevent the spread of measles, while the Region of Waterloo is taking it one step further.
If an infection is reported at a camp in Waterloo Region, the health unit said any 'children or staff who are not fully protected with two documented doses' of the measles vaccine will be sent home. The also won't be allowed to return for at least 21 days after any potential exposure, unless they provide proof of vaccination against the virus.
The latest epidemiological summary from Public Health Ontario, updated on June 19, showed 110 measles infections were reported by Region of Waterloo Public Health between Oct. 18, 2024 and June 17, 2024. Over the last week, the total number of cases increased by 21. It is important to note, there may be a discrepancy between the region's total and the data shared by Public Health Ontario due to a lag in the reporting system and revised classification criteria.
Huron Perth Public Health
Huron Perth Public Health, meanwhile, only asked that camp providers prioritize the identification of measles symptoms, follow proper protocols and communicate with parents about the importance of measles. They also stressed 'understanding reporting requirements and procedures for managing cases and contacts.'
'Vaccination is important for camp participants as it is the best way to prevent the infection,' Dr. Miriam Klassen, the medical officer of health for Huron Perth, said in a media release. 'In addition, camp and program organizers must be prepared to respond effectively to potential measles cases to protect the community's health.'
The latest epidemiological summary from Public Health Ontario showed 249 measles infections reported by Huron Perth Public Health between Oct. 18 and June 17, an increase of 14 in the last week. Again, the data may not line up with the local health unit's case counts due to reporting delays and changing classification.
While the outbreak seems to have slowed down, public health officials said it is still important to take precautions.
What to know about measles
Measles is a highly contagious virus. The disease can spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes or breathes. Even brief exposure to measles can result in illness.
Symptoms include a fever, runny nose, cough, red watery eyes, small white spots inside the mouth and a red blotchy rash. Other signs of measles include diarrhea, ear infections and pneumonia. In severe cases, measles can cause brain inflammation and death.
It usually takes between seven and 21 days for symptoms to show up.
Anyone who believes they may have been exposed to measles is asked to stay at home and avoid contact with others. If medical treatment is needed, people are urged to contact their health provider ahead of time to prevent the illness from spreading to other patients.
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