Infant born premature, infected with measles dies in southwestern Ontario

An infant who was born premature and infected with the measles has died in southwestern Ontario, the province’s Chief Medical Officer of Health said.

In a statement, Dr. Kieran Moore said the infant contracted the virus before birth from their mother, who had not received the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine.

He added that 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.”

No further details about the infant’s death have been released out of respect for the family’s privacy.

In Waterloo Region, the number of cases locally has grown to 88, according to the epidemiological report by Public Health Ontario. Since May 27, there have been 10 new cases of measles reported to the Region of Waterloo Public Health and Emergency Services.

Dr. Moore said measles poses a serious risk to unvaccinated individuals and infants and can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia, brain swelling, premature birth and in rare cases, death.

“I urge everyone, but especially those who may become pregnant, to ensure they have received two doses of the MMR vaccine, which will protect both a parent and baby,” read his statement.

“I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family during this incredibly difficult time. I also want to thank the dedicated health-care professionals who cared for both the mother and infant with compassion and expertise.”

Ontario has been dealing with a measles outbreak since October 2024, with over 2,000 cases linked to an outbreak that began in New Brunswick. As of June 3, 140 cases have required hospitalization.

The vast majority of the cases are from people who are unvaccinated or whose immunization status is unknown.