Measles outbreak soars in southwestern Ontario

Southwestern Medical Officer of Health Dr. Ninh Tran held another update Thursday, informing the public about the rising cases of measles in the region.

Southwestern Medical Officer of Health Dr. Ninh Tran held another update Thursday, informing the public about the rising cases of measles in Oxford County, Elgin County and St. Thomas.

The number of cases reported to Southwest Public Health (SWPH) since October is now at 451, which amounts to the highest case count in any jurisdiction in Ontario — the region saw 65 cases in the last week alone.

• SWPH reports 75 per cent of measles cases were in youths

Tran said the cases are linked to one another, although he did not specify if it was because of an isolated gathering over the Easter long weekend.

He emphasizes the unvaccinated population remains the common factor among those infected.

Measles can result in severe complications and hospitalization