As measles cases continue to surge across Ontario, Ottawa Public Health is ramping up its efforts to prepare for potential incidents in the capital city. Although Ottawa has yet to report any measles cases during this unprecedented outbreak—the largest since the disease was eliminated in the province in 1998—medical officials are taking proactive measures to safeguard the community.

In a memo addressed to Mayor Mark Sutcliffe, the city council, and the Ottawa Board of Health, interim medical officer of health Dr. Trevor Arnason outlined the current situation and underscored the importance of vaccination as a frontline defense against the highly contagious virus.

The Measles Dilemma: Understanding the Outbreak

Public Health Ontario disclosed that in just one week, 120 new confirmed and probable measles cases were reported across the province, escalating the total number to 440 cases in 2025. Tragically, the sweeping majority of these infected individuals were unvaccinated. Overall, since the start of this outbreak last October, there have been 470 cases documented by 11 public health units, primarily concentrated in southwestern Ontario.

To combat this public health crisis, Ottawa Public Health is enhancing its outreach efforts to promote vaccination among residents. Vaccination rates in Ontario, which historically hovered above 95%, have declined in recent years due to various factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, widespread misinformation, and limited access to healthcare services.

In an effort to mitigate risks, OPH is collaborating with initiatives like the Kids Come First health team to provide timely childhood immunizations for families without easy access to primary care. Furthermore, community vaccination clinics and Neighborhood Health and Wellness Hubs have collectively administered over 23,000 immunizations to children and youth facing barriers in accessing healthcare.

The Threat of Measles: What You Should Know

Measles is recognized as one of the most contagious diseases known, with up to 90% of susceptible individuals contracting the virus upon exposure. The virus can linger in the air and on surfaces long after an infected person has left, further complicating containment efforts. Those affected by measles can face severe complications, including pneumonia, and lifelong consequences such as blindness, deafness, and brain damage.

Most recently, 34 individuals—many of them children—have required hospitalization as a result of this outbreak, with two cases leading to intensive care. Alarmingly, nearly all of those hospitalized were unvaccinated.

Keeping the Public Informed

Ottawa Public Health is monitoring the situation closely and is equipped to act should any cases arise in the city. Health professionals are mandated to report suspected and confirmed cases of measles, allowing OPH to initiate contact tracing and notify individuals who may have been exposed.

As the province grapples with this public health challenge, it's crucial for community members to remain informed and engaged in vaccination efforts. The city’s health authorities are sending notices to students with incomplete vaccination records, emphasizing the urgent need for parents to ensure their children's immunizations are up to date.

With symptoms like fever, red blotchy rashes, red watery eyes, and coughing, early detection and intervention can be vital in preventing further spread. Ottawa residents are urged to stay alert and consider vaccination as the most effective safeguard against this devastating disease.

Conclusion: The Call to Action

As Ontario battles this unprecedented outbreak, the time to act is now. Vaccination is not just a personal choice—it's a community responsibility. Stay informed, get vaccinated, and protect yourself and those around you from the grave threats posed by measles.