Ontario is reporting 89 new measles cases this week, bringing the total provincial count to 661 since the outbreak began in the fall. While this is slightly lower than the 100+ cases reported last week, the numbers remain concerning.

Current Impact:

• 52 people hospitalized, including 3 in intensive care
• Majority of cases are in unvaccinated children
• Nearly 45% of cases are from Ontario’s southwestern public health unit

About Measles: Measles is one of the most contagious viruses in the world. It spreads easily through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes and can linger in the air or on surfaces for up to 2 hours.

Measles Symptoms

Symptoms of measles include Fever, Cough, Runny nose, Red, watery eyes. Red, blotchy rash (starts on the face, spreads to the body). In severe cases, it can cause pneumonia, brain inflammation, and even death.

Vaccination for Measles

Vaccination = Protection! The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella) is the best way to protect yourself and your community. Most people born after 1970 need 2 doses. People who received two doses of measles vaccine as children are protected for life. They do not ever need a booster dose.

Are you Protected from Measles?

Anyone born before 1957 is generally considered immune to measles. This means they are fully protected from measles for life and no additional vaccination is necessary. If you do not have presumptive evidence of immunity; that is, If you’re unsure whether you’re immune to measles, you should first try to find your vaccination records or documentation of measles immunity. If you do not have a record of measles immunity, you should get the MMR vaccine. There is no harm in getting another dose of MMR vaccine if you may already be immune to measles (or mumps or rubella).
If you’re unsure about your immunization status, talk to your doctor or local public health unit
Due to increased global measles activity, Ontario is seeing more “imported” cases. Travel-related exposures can spark outbreaks—check your vaccine status before traveling internationally.
⚠️ Feeling sick? Stay home. If you have measles symptoms, stay home and call your
healthcare provider or public health unit. Do not go to a clinic or ER without calling first—this helps prevent the spread to others.

Let’s all do our part to protect vulnerable people in our communities—vaccinate, stay informed, and take symptoms seriously.

Disclaimer: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider first. Full Disclaimer

Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful, healthy Easter filled with happiness, fresh spring air—and yes, maybe a little chocolate too!

As we hop into the season, here are a few simple but helpful health tips from the teams at Centrum Pharmacy and Orleans Family Health Center:
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As the sun shines brighter and temperatures rise, many of us are eager to spend more time outdoors, enjoying nature’s beauty. However, along with the joys of summer come certain risks, one of the most prevalent being tick bites. These tiny creatures may seem harmless, but they can carry serious diseases like Lyme disease, making tick awareness and safety crucial for everyone venturing into wooded or grassy areas.

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How to Get a Family Doctor in Ottawa & Orléans – With Help from Centrum Pharmacy.

There’s an urgent shortage of family physicians in the Orléans community—but Centrum Pharmacy is here to help. Our team has been instrumental in recruiting and sponsoring physicians to serve local residents, and we’re proud to announce that over the years, we have successfully brought 12 family doctors to Orléans.
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Virtual Doctor Visits Now Available Through Centrum Pharmacy and Rocket Doctor

At Centrum Pharmacy, we believe your pharmacist is more than just a medication expert—they’re your trusted health partner. That’s why we’ve teamed up with Rocket Doctor to make healthcare more accessible than ever before. Thanks to this partnership, you can now book a FREE virtual appointment with a licensed physician, right from the comfort of your home. This telemedicine service is covered by OHIP and typically available the same day. Your Centrum Pharmacist will work closely with your Rocket Doctor physician to ensure you receive a personalized treatment plan tailored to your health needs and lifestyle. It’s seamless, convenient, and all about putting your health first.

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Healthcare is at a Breaking Point — It’s Time for Real Solutions

On Saturday in St. John’s, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh pledged that an NDP government would ensure every Canadian has access to a family doctor by 2030. With over 6.5 million Canadians currently without a family physician, the urgency of this crisis cannot be overstated.
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Walk-In Clinic Now Available Fridays & Saturdays at Centrum Pharmacy – Orleans

See a doctor in Orleans with no appointment

If you’re searching for a walk-in clinic in Orleans or Ottawa, Centrum Pharmacy has you covered. We’re proud to now offer in-person doctor consultations right here in our pharmacy — no appointment necessary!

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Blacklegged ticks, long associated with Lyme disease, are now spreading other infections in Canada, including anaplasmosis and babesiosis. With climate change pushing ticks further north and Ontario reporting rising cases, we must expand our testing and awareness. (more…)

Your Health. Your Community. Your Pharmacy.

At Centrum Pharmacy, we believe that strong communities start with strong healthcare. When you choose to fill your prescriptions with us, you’re investing in better healthcare for Orleans.

How Your Support Makes a Difference

Every prescription filled at Centrum Pharmacy helps us recruit more doctors to Orleans, expand medical services, and ensure faster, more accessible care for you and your family. Over the past ten years we have assisted in bringing twelve new family doctors to the Orleans community.
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Eid Mubarak from your friends at Centrum Pharmacy!

May this joyous occasion of Eid bring peace, happiness, and prosperity to you and your loved ones. Let’s celebrate the spirit of togetherness, compassion, and gratitude. Enjoy the special moments, delicious feasts, and cherished memories with family and friends.

After a month of fasting, it’s important to ease back into regular eating habits in a healthy way:

• Stay Hydrated – Replenish fluids by drinking plenty of water and herbal teas.
• Eat Balanced Meals – Focus on protein, healthy fats, and fiber to maintain energy.
• Avoid Overeating – Start with light meals to prevent digestive discomfort.
• Support Your Health – Consider vitamins and supplements to replenish essential nutrients.

Enjoy the delicious feasts, heartfelt connections, and beautiful traditions that make Eid so special.

Wishing you a blessed and joyful Eid!

Disclaimer: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider first. Full Disclaimer.