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Back to SearchThe pandemic is an unsettling time for families and we are making every effort to let families know what to expect onsite and that CHEO is safe.
We treat all diseases, conditions and ailments afflicting children in our region. It’s what we do – we are always here for families who need us. Right now, we have cases of chickenpox onsite and together with Ottawa Public Health we are declaring it an outbreak.
Here is what you need to know:
- A child contracted chickenpox in the community and was admitted to CHEO for other reasons, then developed a rash. Two other children were subsequently infected.
- All safety precautions are in place. The cases are contained and the risk of transmission is extremely low.
- Families whose children may have been exposed are aware, and everyone at CHEO is in the best hands.
- And most importantly, vaccines work. Please vaccinate your child for all preventable childhood infectious diseases.
We have no further information to share at this time.
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About CHEO
Based in Canada’s capital, CHEO is a globally renowned health institution with a mission to provide exceptional care and support to children, youth and their families. Opening our doors in 1974, we offer a full range of specialized pediatric care and services to children from eastern and northern Ontario, western Quebec and Nunavut. Our site is home to a hospital, a children’s treatment centre, a school, a research institute, and is affiliated with the University of Ottawa as an academic health science centre. Named Canada’s best health-care employer by Forbes in 2024, we are home to more than 6,500 staff, clinicians, scientists and researchers, as well as volunteers – all of whom work together to help children and youth achieve their best lives.
Media contact
media@cheo.on.ca