Info Regarding Measles in Ontario and Immunization Records

May 26, 2025

Subject: Important Information Regarding Measles in Ontario and Immunization Records

Dear Parents, Guardians, and Caregivers,

As you may be aware, Ontario — like many regions around the world — is currently experiencing a significant measles outbreak, with approximately 1,440 cases reported as of May 8, 2025. More than 90% of these cases have been among individuals who are unimmunized or whose immunization status is unknown, and about 50% of the cases involve children and youth aged five to 19. While cases have been reported in 17 public health units across the province, the majority remain concentrated in Southwestern Ontario.

Given that individuals with measles can be contagious before symptoms appear, there is a risk of exposure within school settings. Although a few school exposures have occurred across the province, there has been no secondary transmission reported to date, thanks to strong collaboration between schools and local public health agencies.

We are asking for your continued support in keeping our schools safe and minimizing the risk of disruption to in-person learning.

What You Can Do:

  • Check your child's immunization status and ensure their records are up to date.
  • Update any missing records with your local public health agency.
  • Be prepared to provide a copy of your child's immunization record to public health officials in the event of an exposure.

Under Ontario's Immunization of School Pupils Act (ISPA), all students must have up-to-date measles vaccination records or valid exemptions reported to their local public health agency. These records are essential for quickly identifying who may be at risk if an exposure occurs. Unimmunized students who are exposed to measles will be excluded from school by public health until it is safe for them to return.

 

Additional Resources:

Thank you for your attention to this important matter and for your ongoing efforts to support the health and safety of our school communities.

Sincerely,

Will Goodman

Director of Education

Superior-Greenstone District School Board