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March Break travels increase the risk of contracting measles: Health unit

February 27, 2026   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

March Break often involves travel and gatherings, meaning travel to some destinations may pose a risk of contracting measles.

The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit is reminding residents that this is an important time for families to review and update their children’s immunizations, including measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccines.

Adults and children who are not protected against measles and certain other communicable diseases may be excluded from child care, school, or work for a period of time if the disease occurs in the community.

The measles vaccine is safe and highly effective, providing about 97 per cent protection after two doses. In Ontario, children receive the MMR vaccine at one year of age and again at four years as part of the province’s routine immunization schedule.

If you need a vaccination, contact your health care provider or book an appointment online at a health unit immunization clinic in Barrie, Collingwood, Cookstown, Gravenhurst, Huntsville, Midland, or Orillia. 

Measles is increasing worldwide, with more countries reporting cases. Outbreaks are currently occurring in several countries, including Mexico and the United States.

As of Feb. 16, 2026, Health Canada reported 192 measles cases in Alberta, Manitoba, Quebec, and Ontario combined this year.

Travelling internationally can increase the risk of exposure to measles and therefore bring the virus home.

Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health and the Health Unit recommend ensuring your immunizations are up to date, including two doses of MMR by age five, before travelling.

Being vaccinated is especially important for:

· Children aged four to six

· Older children who missed their second dose of the MMR vaccine

· Those born in 1970 or after who are planning to travel outside of Canada are also recommended for a second dose

· Adults 18 years and older who are health care workers, post-secondary students or have been advised by their health care provider

Infants aged six to 11 months who will be travelling to areas with increased measles transmission, in discussion with their health care provider, can get an early first dose.

Anyone born before 1970 in Canada is presumed immune due to the measles circulating at that time.

However, if they are travelling outside Canada and have never had a measles infection or received a measles vaccine, it is prudent to have one dose.

Measles most often affects young children, but anyone who is not fully immunized is at risk. The virus spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and it can remain airborne for up to two hours. 

Symptoms begin seven to 21 days after exposure and include fever, runny nose, cough, irritability, red eyes, and sometimes small white spots in the mouth.

Three to seven days after symptoms begin, a red, blotchy rash appears on the face and then spreads down the body.

Complications can include ear infections, pneumonia, diarrhea, encephalitis (swelling of the brain) and occasionally death in the very young. 

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