The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) has urged organizers of summer activities to know what to do if measles shows up uninvited.
With the school year less than two weeks away from ending in Windsor-Essex, summer camp operators and day camp coordinators have been asked to be prepared to keep measles away, and act should cases arise.
"Measles is a highly contagious disease that can spread quickly in group settings like camps," said Windsor-Essex Medical Officer of Health Dr. Mehdi Aloosh. "Ensuring that all participants are protected through vaccination and that camps are prepared to respond to potential cases is critical to keeping our community safe."
Camp and program organizers should submit their complete contact information to the health unit so they can be easily notified if a case is reported, thus minimizing any impact on activities and avoiding disruption.
Coordinators are also urged, before their camp opens, to check with the health unit for recommendations. Tips include those for identifying measles symptoms, reporting requirements, infection prevention and control, and messaging to encourage campers and staff to have records available.
The health unit is also reminding campers and staff that vaccination is the best line of defence, with two doses of the MMR vaccine.
Complete information on measles and its effect on summer programs can be found on the health unit's official website.