Photo courtesy St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital
As our community experiences an increase in measles cases, St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our patients, visitors, and staff. We want to reassure the community that it is safe to come to the hospital during this time, while taking necessary precautions to protect everyone’s health.
Due to the current respiratory season and measles outbreak, we encourage all patients and visitors to wear masks in hospital waiting areas. Masks are readily available at all hospital entrances and clinical areas.
In order to keep our community safe, if you require medical care and you have not received the measles vaccine AND are experiencing symptoms such as fever, cough, or rash, or you have been in contact with someone diagnosed with measles, please contact the department you are scheduled to visit before coming to the hospital. This proactive step ensures that our healthcare team can provide guidance on safe entry and minimize potential exposure risks.
Anyone born after 1970 should have received two doses of the measles vaccine for up to 99% protection. High-risk groups, including infants under 12 months, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems, are particularly vulnerable.
If you suspect you may have been exposed to measles but are not showing symptoms, please contact Public Health instead of visiting the Emergency Department for testing. Vaccine appointments can also be scheduled through Public Health or your family doctor.
For more information on measles prevention and resources, we encourage you to visit Public Health’s website. https://www.swpublichealth.ca/my-health/infectious-diseases/measles/
