Given the ongoing measles outbreak in southwestern Ontario, the Middlesex-London Health Unit is now encouraging residents to seek early vaccination for children under the age of five.

Within Middlesex County and the City of London, the risk of measles in the general population remains low. However, as travel for work, sports, and family visits is common throughout Southwestern Ontario, the following is advised to reduce the risk of measles infection:

• Infants (six to 11 months): Should receive one dose of the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine. Two additional doses are required after the age of one year.
• Children (one to four years): Children who have received their first dose of MMR vaccine are encouraged to receive a second dose as soon as possible (at a minimum of four weeks from the first dose).
• Adults (18+ years) born on or after 1970: A second dose of MMR vaccine is recommended.

Parents and guardians seeking an earlier dose of measles containing vaccine for their child or children should speak to their regular health care provider.

The Health Unit continues to promote vaccination as the best source of protection against the measles virus - 86% of Ontario’s cases are unvaccinated, and another 7% have unknown immunization status.