Durham Health Department yesterday said it is investigating two new confirmed cases of measles in Durham Region.
It reported the first measles case on Friday March 6. It was in a child and had led to the possibility of exposure to others (see below).
“Durham Region Health Department has received confirmation of two additional cases of measles in local unimmunized children. This brings the total to three confirmed cases, all of which reside in one household,” said the announcement.
The Health Department’ said this location was previously identified as an exposure site on February 26 and March 2; however, the table below provides additional information for this site connected to these two new cases.
| Location | Address | Date | Time | Watch for symptoms until (21 days after exposure) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ritson North Medical (Urgent Care) | 1288 Ritson Road North, Oshawa | March 4, 2026 | 3 p.m. to 5:15 p.m. | March 25, 2026 |
Please visit durham.ca/measles for a list of all measles exposure sites in Durham.
The Health Department advises anyone who believes they may have been exposed to the measles virus at the above locations to do the following:
- Confirm you and your family members have two doses of measles vaccine (MMR or MMRV); those born before 1970 would likely have had measles illness as a child and are protected. Individuals who are unsure of their vaccination status should check with their health care professional.
- If you develop symptoms, stay home and do not attend work or school. Call ahead before visiting a clinic or hospital and let them know you may have measles to allow them to prepare and prevent the spread of the virus. Wear a well-fitting mask when getting a medical assessment.
- Individuals who do not have access to a health care professional may also call Durham Health Connection Line at 905-668-2020 or 1-800-841-2729.
Highly Contagious Disease
Measles is a highly contagious disease that spreads easily to those who are not immunized or have not previously had measles. Infants under one-year old, unimmunized pregnant individuals, and people with weakened immune systems are at increased risk of complications from measles. The measles virus can stay in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours. Measles symptoms typically begin seven to 21 days after infection and may include:
- High fever (greater than or equal to 38.3 degrees Celsius)
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis, i.e. pink eye), sensitivity to light
- Red rash lasting four to seven days