Windsor Regional Hospital Urges Measles Vaccination Check as Students Return to School

By: Matt Weingarden, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Lakeshore News Reporter

As students across Windsor-Essex return to classrooms this fall, Windsor Regional Hospital (WRH) is issuing a critical reminder to families: ensure measles vaccinations are up to date. The advisory comes amid a concerning rise in local measles cases and ongoing visitor restrictions at the hospital.

Measles, a highly contagious airborne virus, can lead to severe complications including pneumonia, brain inflammation, and even death—particularly among young children, immunocompromised individuals, and those who are unvaccinated. The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) has confirmed multiple cases in recent months, including three in March linked to public exposure sites such as Walmart Supercentre and Chick-Fil-A. Although the number of new cases has declined since a peak in April, the risk remains high for unvaccinated individuals2.

According to WECHU, approximately 97% of measles cases in Ontario among infants, children, and adolescents occurred in those who were not immunized. The province has recorded over 2,200 measles cases in 2025 alone, with Windsor-Essex contributing to that total. Nationally, Canada has seen 4,718 measles cases this year, making it one of the most significant outbreaks in recent history.

In response, WRH continues to enforce visitor restrictions and has implemented strict protocols for individuals who may have been exposed. Patients with scheduled appointments who suspect exposure are urged to call 519-254-5577, dial 0 for the switchboard, and speak with the relevant department before arriving. Those seeking emergency care should also call ahead and notify the Emergency Department. All visitors must wear a well-fitted mask or request one from security upon entry.

“Vaccination is our strongest defense,” said a spokesperson from WRH. “We’re asking families to check their immunization records, especially as students return to high-contact environments like schools and universities.”

Children typically receive two doses of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine—one at 12 months and another between 4 and 6 years of age. Adults born after 1970 who are unsure of their vaccination status may require an additional dose. Those born before 1970 are generally considered immune.

Parents and guardians are also reminded to submit updated immunization records to WECHU as required under the Immunization of School Pupils Act (ISPA). For more information on measles, vaccination schedules, and outbreak updates, visit the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit or Ontario’s vaccine portal3.

As Windsor-Essex continues to navigate this public health challenge, WRH and WECHU stress that vigilance, vaccination, and early communication are key to protecting the community—especially its youngest members.