New Measles Exposure Warning in Owen Sound
Grey Bruce Public Health reports a measles exposure at Owen Sound Hospital and urges those present to check vaccination status.
Grey Bruce Public Health is advising the public of a new confirmed measles exposure linked to an unvaccinated child from Grey-Bruce.
Following a contact-tracing investigation, health officials have identified one potential exposure location: the emergency department at Brightshores Health System’s Owen Sound Hospital between 4:40 p.m. on April 20, 2025, and 10:35 a.m. on April 21, 2025.
Grey Bruce Public Health and Brightshores Health System are contacting all registered patients who were at the emergency department during that timeframe.
However, they caution that individuals who were not formally registered but were present may not have been reached.
Anyone who was at the emergency department during the identified period should take the following steps:
Confirm vaccination status: In general, individuals born before 1970 are considered immune to measles. Those born after 1970 should have two doses of a measles-containing vaccine. If unsure, individuals are advised to consult their healthcare provider or access records through ICON.
Seek post-exposure treatment if needed: Those who are not protected against measles should contact their healthcare provider or Public Health for post-exposure treatment if it has been six days or less since exposure, or to receive a measles-containing vaccine for lifelong protection.
Monitor for symptoms: Measles symptoms typically appear 7 to 21 days after exposure and may include high fever, cough, runny nose, sore eyes, and sensitivity to light. A red, blotchy rash usually follows three to seven days after the onset of symptoms, starting on the face and spreading to the rest of the body.
Anyone developing measles symptoms should isolate at home immediately and contact their healthcare provider. Household members who are not immune should also stay home and consult with public health authorities. Those requiring medical attention are urged to call ahead before visiting a healthcare facility to prevent further spread of the virus.
Public Health officials emphasize that “measles is an airborne illness that can live in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours,” and it is highly contagious when an infected person coughs, talks, or sneezes.
Ontario is currently experiencing a multi-jurisdictional measles outbreak. As of April 23, 2025, a total of 1,020 measles cases have been reported in 15 Public Health Unit areas since October 2024.
Vaccination remains the most effective defense against measles. A single dose of the measles vaccine is estimated to be 85% to 95% effective, with two doses providing nearly 100% protection.
Under Ontario’s vaccine schedule, children receive their first dose at one year of age and a second between ages four and six. Adults who have never had measles or been vaccinated are also eligible for a publicly funded vaccine.
Grey Bruce Public Health urges all residents to ensure their vaccinations are up to date to protect themselves and the community.
