Ottawa Public Health Officials Increase Efforts to Vaccinate Against Mumps
In response to a recent outbreak of mumps in Ottawa, public health officials have ramped up their efforts to vaccinate the community against the highly contagious virus.
According to Ottawa Public Health (OPH), there have been 16 confirmed cases of mumps in the city since the beginning of the year. This is a significant increase from the average of one to two cases per year in the past decade.
Mumps is a viral infection that primarily affects the salivary glands, causing swelling and tenderness in the jaw and cheeks. It can also lead to more serious complications such as meningitis, deafness, and inflammation of the testicles or ovaries.
To prevent the spread of mumps, OPH is urging all residents to ensure they are up to date on their vaccinations. The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is the most effective way to protect against the virus, with two doses recommended for optimal immunity.
In addition to promoting the importance of vaccinations, OPH has also implemented targeted vaccination clinics in areas where the outbreak has been most prevalent. These clinics are open to anyone who may have been in contact with a confirmed case of mumps or who may be at higher risk due to their age or occupation.
Dr. Vera Etches, Ottawa’s Medical Officer of Health, stresses the importance of getting vaccinated not only for personal protection but also for the health of the community. “Vaccines not only protect the individual, but they also protect those who cannot be vaccinated, such as infants and those with weakened immune systems,” she explains.
OPH is also working closely with local universities and colleges to ensure students are aware of the outbreak and the importance of being vaccinated. Mumps is highly contagious and can spread quickly in close quarters, making students a particularly vulnerable population.
While the outbreak is concerning, OPH assures the public that they are taking all necessary measures to contain and prevent further spread of the virus. They are also closely monitoring the situation and will continue to provide updates and resources to the community.
In conclusion, the recent increase in mumps cases in Ottawa serves as a reminder of the importance of vaccinations in protecting ourselves and our communities against preventable diseases. OPH’s efforts to ramp up vaccination efforts are crucial in containing the outbreak and preventing future ones. It is essential for all residents to ensure they are up to date on their vaccinations and to follow OPH’s recommendations to prevent the spread of mumps.
