Infants in Ontario Contract Measles In Utero During Outbreak

Congenital Cases Highlight Risks to Unvaccinated Mothers

A recent surge in measles cases in Ontario, Canada, has led to a concerning development: six infants have been born with congenital measles after their mothers remained unvaccinated during pregnancy. Health officials emphasize these infections were preventable with routine immunization.

Preventable Infections

Kieran Moore, Ontario’s chief medical officer of health, confirmed that all six babies who contracted the virus in the womb have since fully recovered. He stressed that vaccination remains the most effective way to protect both mothers and their unborn children from this highly contagious disease.

“The infections could have been prevented through routine vaccination.”

—Kieran Moore, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, measles is so contagious that if one person has it, 90% of those around them who aren’t immune will also become infected. (CDC Measles FAQs, 2024) This underscores the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates to achieve herd immunity.

Largest Outbreak in the Western Hemisphere

This situation unfolds against the backdrop of the largest measles outbreak in the Western Hemisphere in recent years, which began late last year. Public health authorities are working to contain the spread and encourage vaccination among eligible populations. The outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of declining immunization rates.

Health officials continue to urge pregnant individuals to ensure they are up-to-date on their measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccinations to protect themselves and their future children. Further information on vaccination schedules and availability can be found through local public health units.