Southwestern Ontario infant born prematurely dies after measles infection

The province’s top doctor says an infant born prematurely and infected with measles has died in southwestern Ontario.

Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Kieran Moore says the infant contracted the virus from their mother, who was not vaccinated.

“While measles may have been a contributing factor in both the premature birth and death, the infant also faced other serious medical complications unrelated to the virus,” Moore writes in a statement Thursday.

“I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family during this incredibly difficult time.”

This is the first death reported in Ontario’s measles outbreak, which began in October with a travel-related case in New Brunswick.

He says out of respect for the family’s privacy, the province will not reveal any further personal or medical details.

Moore urges everyone, especially people who may become pregnant, to ensure they have received two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine.

Measles outbreak cases continue to rise

As of June 3, the province has reported 2,009 cases of measles since the outbreak began last fall.

Public Health Ontario’s weekly measles report, released Thursday, says the virus continues to spread primarily among people who have not been vaccinated.

The report says a total of 140 people have required hospitalization throughout the outbreak, with nine people admitted to intensive care.

Thirty nine of the outbreak cases were in pregnant women, 29 of whom were not vaccinated.

The report shows the Southwestern Public Health unit, which includes Oxford County, Elgin County and St. Thomas, continues to be hardest-hit with a total of 725 cases.

Grand Erie Public Health has reported a total of 273 measles cases throughout the outbreak. Huron Perth Public Health unit has reported 231 cases and Chatham-Kent Public Health has reported 175 since October.

READ MORE: Measles cases increase by 173 in Ontario, bringing outbreak’s total close to 1,800

With files from The Canadian Press.