As March Break approaches, families in Simcoe Muskoka are being reminded to ensure their children’s immunizations are up to date, particularly against measles. This comes as health officials observe increasing measles activity both internationally and within Canada, and as a deadline approaches for students in grades 3 and 4 with incomplete immunization records.
Measles Concerns and Travel
The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) is urging families to review and update vaccinations for all members, with a specific focus on the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Increased measles transmission in several countries, including Mexico and the United States, raises the risk for travelers. As of , Health Canada has reported measles cases combined in Alberta, Manitoba, Quebec, and Ontario. The virus can remain infectious in the air for up to two hours after an infected person coughs or sneezes.
The MMR vaccine is highly effective, providing approximately 97 percent protection after two doses. In Ontario, children typically receive the MMR vaccine at one year of age and again at four years as part of the province’s routine immunization schedule. Infants aged six to 11 months traveling to areas with increased measles transmission may benefit from an early first dose, in consultation with a healthcare provider.
Individuals born before are generally presumed immune due to widespread measles circulation at that time. However, those traveling outside of Canada who have never had measles infection or the measles vaccine are advised to receive one dose.
Symptoms and Risks of Measles
Measles symptoms typically appear seven to 21 days after exposure and include fever, runny nose, cough, irritability, red eyes, and small white spots inside the mouth. A red, blotchy rash usually follows three to seven days later, starting on the face and spreading down the body. Complications can include ear infections, pneumonia, diarrhea, and, in rare cases, encephalitis (brain swelling) or even death, particularly in young children.
School Immunization Requirements and Suspension Orders
Beyond travel-related concerns, thousands of students in Simcoe Muskoka face potential school suspension due to incomplete immunization records. Currently, the SMDHU reports that , 3,741 pupils in grades 3 and 4 – those born in and – have missing or incomplete records. Families of these students have been mailed suspension orders, which will take effect on , if the required information is not submitted by that date.
These measures are mandated under Ontario’s Immunization of School Pupils Act (ISPA). The SMDHU supports the ISPA by reviewing student vaccination records and notifying families when updates are needed. Reminder notices were initially sent home with students in June and November.
Resolving Suspension Orders and Accessing Immunization Services
Parents and guardians who have received a suspension order are urged to take immediate action to update their child’s immunization records. The health unit encourages families to contact their healthcare provider to ensure records are current.
Immunization clinics are also available in Barrie, Collingwood, Cookstown, Gravenhurst, Huntsville, Midland, and Orillia. Appointments can be booked online through the SMDHU website.
“Immunizations protect children by helping their bodies build immunity before they encounter disease,” says Dr. Colin Lee, associate medical officer of health at SMDHU. “The recent measles outbreaks we’ve seen in Ontario show how quickly vaccine-preventable diseases can spread. Keeping immunization records up to date safeguards both our schools and the wider community.”
The health unit emphasizes the importance of proactive immunization, not only for individual protection but also for maintaining the health and safety of the broader community, particularly as travel increases during March Break.
