Ottawa Hospital Alerts Public After Confirmed Measles Case

Officials from The Ottawa Hospital are alerting staff, physicians, and in-patients about potential exposure to measles after a confirmed case was identified at the emergency department of the hospital’s General campus. This notification comes as part of a coordinated response with Ottawa Public Health to ensure that anyone who may have been exposed receives timely information.

The measles exposure is linked to an isolated case, which marks the fifth confirmed measles incident in Ottawa this year. The individual, who has not been publicly identified, reportedly contracted the virus while traveling in Western Canada. In light of this event, Ottawa Public Health issued an alert on Thursday regarding possible exposures at various locations in the city between August 5 and August 8, 2023.

Current Measles Situation

Both Ontario and Alberta have experienced significant measles outbreaks this year, primarily affecting individuals who are not fully immunized. Although Ontario’s outbreak appears to be subsiding, Alberta continues to report numerous new cases each week. In response to the ongoing situation, hospitals across Ottawa have heightened their vigilance in monitoring for additional measles cases.

Michaela Schreiter, a spokesperson for The Ottawa Hospital, emphasized the institution’s commitment to rigorous infection prevention and control protocols. “We are working closely with Ottawa Public Health to reach anyone else directly who may have been exposed while in our emergency department,” she stated. The hospital’s protocols include notifying patients and staff potentially exposed to the virus.

In addition, Ottawa Public Health is advising anyone who visited specific locations in Ottawa during the specified dates to monitor their symptoms for a period of 21 days. Although there is currently no evidence of local transmission of measles in Ottawa, officials continue to stress the importance of vigilance.

Public Health Implications

Measles is known to be one of the most contagious infectious diseases worldwide. The vaccine designed to prevent measles is highly effective, contributing to Canada’s previous status as a country that had eliminated the disease in the 1990s due to high vaccination rates. Recent declines in immunization coverage are now contributing to the resurgence of measles and other infectious diseases.

Individuals who are unable to receive vaccinations, such as infants and those with compromised immune systems, face heightened risks. The current situation serves as a reminder of the critical importance of vaccination in safeguarding public health.

As the situation develops, both public health and hospital officials remain committed to ensuring that residents of Ottawa are informed and protected against potential health threats.