11 more cases of measles confirmed in Norfolk County

Grand Erie Public Health is investigating another 11 confirmed cases of measles in Norfolk County.

The latest illness brings the total number of confirmed cases to 68. Public Health said at least 13 adults and 55 children in Haldimand County, Norfolk County, Brantford and Brant County are sick.

The latest potential exposure sites include:

• Norfolk General Hospital Emergency Department, 365 West St., Simcoe, February 19, 2025, 6 p.m. – 10:15 p.m.
• Wilkinson’s Your Independent Grocer Delhi 227 Main St., Delhi, February 14, 2025, 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Early vaccinations encouraged

The health unit is encouraging parents with young children to consider early vaccination.

Infants can receive a first dose as early as 6 months of age. Children who receive the early dose will still need an additional dose of the measles vaccine after they turn one-year-old, but experts said the earlier dose can offer some protection.

In the past, early vaccination has been offered to families who travelled to areas that have higher rates of measles.

Grand Erie Public Health recently held three vaccination clinics throughout their coverage area in hopes of slowing the spread. In an email, representatives said more clinics have been planned due to community interest:

• Monday, Feb. 24, 2 p.m. – 6 p.m. at the Vittoria Community Centre
• Thursday, Feb. 27, 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. at the Lynden Park Mall (Entrance #3)
• Saturday, March 1, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the Syl Apps Community Centre (Commemorative Hall)
• Saturday, March 1, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Townsend Lions Hall

Symptoms

Symptoms of measles include fever, a red blotchy rash, red watery eyes and a cough. More serious complications can include pneumonia and brain infections that can lead to hospitalizations.

Other symptoms include ear infections, diarrhea, respiratory failure and encephalitis. Long-term complications can involve blindness, deafness and brain injuries.