Ontario is currently grappling with a measles outbreak, with 557 confirmed cases as of March 26, 2025. The virus presents symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a distinctive blotchy red rash. In some cases, the rash starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. Measles can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia and encephalitis, making vaccination essential in preventing its spread, especially in crowded environments like college campuses. This is a special challenge since the virus is highly contagious.
The outbreak in Ontario has already led to hospitalizations, particularly among children and teenagers. According to a report by Public Health Ontario, 25.8% of individuals tested for measles in 2025 have returned positive results, further emphasizing the urgent need for protection against the virus.
At Humber Polytechnic and the University of Guelph Humber, the Student Wellness and Accessibility Centre (SWAC) has become a resource in ensuring students are informed and have access to vaccinations amid the growing outbreak.
According to the Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Kieran Moore, the outbreak has been traced back to a large gathering in New Brunswick last fall, where guests from Mennonite communities were in attendance.
“Measles spreads quickly, especially in densely populated areas like residence halls,” said Danielle Erhiaganoma, a student living in residence at Humber since 2022. “Living in close quarters with shared spaces, like bathrooms and kitchens, means it’s easier for infections to spread. That’s why I’m thankful that SWAC is nearby and provides convenient access to vaccines.”
Leslie Furlonge, associate director of Clinical Services at SWAC, emphasized the center’s commitment to helping students during the outbreak. “We have nurses and physicians available five days a week, and students can come in to talk to someone, get tested, and get vaccinated,” Furlonge said. “There’s no cost involved, and it’s free for all students.”
Erhiaganoma recently got vaccinated and believes it’s a crucial step to protect both herself and others around her. “It’s important to stay protected, especially in residences where close contact is inevitable. Getting vaccinated is a simple way to reduce the risk of serious illness and outbreaks,” she said.
In addition to providing vaccinations, SWAC has been working to raise awareness about the outbreak. Through Humber TV ads, posters around campus, and outreach campaigns, students are encouraged to learn more about the risks of measles and the importance of vaccination. “We’ve seen students coming in to get tested and vaccinated,” Furlonge added. “If students are unsure of their vaccination status, we encourage them to come in and get tested. It’s a small step that could protect them from a serious illness.”
The measles outbreak has been reported in several provinces, including Quebec, Alberta, and British Columbia, with cases continuing to rise. In Ontario, new infections have been confirmed in Waterloo, on the western edge of the Greater Toronto Area, and in Lambton County. Just south in Chatham-Kent, cases have nearly doubled in the past week, while Huron Perth is also seeing a growing number of infections.
However, not all students are fully aware of the seriousness of the outbreak. D’nara Mark, a third-year Early Childhood Education student at Humber Polytechnic, admitted that she was not aware of the outbreak. “I don’t follow health updates unless they are major news stories,”, she said. Mark is also not vaccinated, not because she is against it, but simply because updating her immunizations never crossed her mind. After learning more about measles, she is reconsidering her stance on vaccination. “I understand that it’s contagious and that vaccination helps prevent it, catching and spreading.”
Mark also acknowledged the importance of students being informed about health risks. Being aware could help prevent an outbreak. “I think more awareness campaigns on campus would be helpful.”
For students like Erhiaganoma, the availability of vaccination services on campus has made all the difference. “It was very easy to access the services at SWAC,” she said. “The process was quick and efficient. It’s great to have health services readily available, especially for students with busy schedules.”
Furlonge and the SWAC team continue to encourage all students to take responsibility for their health by getting vaccinated or tested. “We want students to understand the risks and take action before it’s too late,” Furlonge said. “Measles is a public health concern, and we are here to provide the information and support they need.”
For more information about measles and to make an appointment for vaccination or testing, students can contact SWAC via email at swac@humber.ca, call (416-675-5090) or visit the health center in person at the LRC, 2nd floor.
As Ontario faces an ongoing measles outbreak, Humber Polytechnic’s SWAC remains committed to safeguarding the health of its student population, offering accessible and free vaccination services to prevent further outbreaks.
Photo, Nataliya Vaikevich, pexels, Common Creative License
