As the school year draws to a close, Huron Perth Public Health is shifting its attention to summer day camp and program providers to help prevent the spread of measles in the region.
The Health Unit is urging summer camp and program providers to take proactive measures to protect the health of children and staff, as the region has the third-highest rate of measles infection in the province.
As of June 10, there had been 235 cases in Huron Perth since the beginning of the outbreak. A new provincial report updating those figures will be released later on Thursday.
"Vaccination is important for camp participants as it is the best way to prevent the infection," said Dr. Miriam Klassen, Medical Officer of Health for Huron Perth in a release. "In addition, camp and program organizers must be prepared to respond effectively to potential measles cases to protect the community's health."
HPPH advises summer day camp and program providers to prioritize: communicating to parents and caregivers the importance of having immunization records up to date and available, identifying measles symptoms and following protocols for suspected cases, and understanding reporting requirements and procedures for managing cases and contacts.
Camp operators and organizers can learn more by visiting the Health Unit's measles webpage.
