Dr. Adelle Chang On appointed acting health officer

Dr. Adelle Chang On has been appointed as the acting medical officer of health at Grand Erie Public Health (GEPH) amidst a measles outbreak. GEPH is responsible for public health in the regions of Brant, Haldimand, Norfolk, and the city of Brantford. As of Wednesday, there have been 112 reported cases of measles in the area. Dr. Chang On will take on this role temporarily after the passing of the previous officer, Dr. Malcolm Lock, in February. There has been a rise in measles cases across Ontario, with GEPH having the second-highest number. The outbreak has seen 470 cases reported across the province since it began in October 2023. Dr. Chang On is also an associate medical officer of health for the Region of Waterloo. She has a background in public health and has worked in Trinidad and Tobago as a medical officer. She expressed her commitment to tackling the current measles outbreak and supporting the health unit's ongoing work. The GEPH is urging vaccinations, as measles is highly contagious and can lead to serious health complications in children. Dr. Chang On noted that many people are at risk if they are not vaccinated. The vaccination rates have declined during the pandemic, which has contributed to the outbreak. Experts point out that the measles vaccine is very effective at preventing the disease. It works by simulating an infection in the body to build immunity. Early identification of measles cases is crucial to prevent further spread, and health officials are focused on protecting those most at risk.