Sudbury Health Unit Updates Measles Testing Protocols Amid Local Activity
Public Health Sudbury & Districts (PHSD) has issued an advisory to healthcare professionals regarding updated protocols for measles testing,effective promptly. The change comes as local measles activity is being monitored, prompting a shift in recommended diagnostic methods.
The health unit now advises that diagnostic serology (IgG adn IgM) is no longer recommended for measles testing. Instead, PHSD emphasizes the importance of PCR testing on respiratory specimens – nasopharyngeal swabs, throat swabs, or urine – collected within 72 hours of symptom onset. detailed storage and transportation requirements for these specimens can be found on the Public Health ontario website. This updated guidance aims to ensure accurate and timely diagnosis, supporting effective public health response to potential outbreaks.
The advisory, signed by Acting Associate Medical Officer of Health Dr. Emily Groot, underscores the availability of all such alerts on the PHSD website. Healthcare professionals are encouraged to consult the site for the most current information. The last modification to this advisory was October 3, 2025.
