Canada has lost its measles elimination status due to an ongoing outbreak, as reported by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) on Monday. The country has experienced this outbreak for 12 consecutive months, which has resulted in the Americas region losing its overall elimination status, despite other countries in the region still being considered free of the disease.
The outbreak in Canada began last October, which health officials attribute to declining vaccination rates. Reports indicate that over 5,000 measles cases occurred in Canada in 2025, with the most cases in Ontario and Alberta. This figure is significantly higher than the 1,681 cases reported in the United States, despite Canada’s smaller population.
Canadian health authorities indicated that the majority of cases have emerged from under-vaccinated communities. In Alberta, vaccination rates have fallen below the necessary 95% threshold to effectively stop the spread of measles. For instance, the South Zone, which includes Calgary, reported only 68% vaccination for children under two years old as of 2024.
PAHO officials are urging Canadian governments and the public to enhance vaccination efforts, noting that achieving a 95% immunization rate is essential for controlling the disease. The MMR vaccine, effective against measles, mumps, and rubella, is recognized as a crucial measure in combating the virus.
The Public Health Agency of Canada is working alongside PAHO and regional health authorities to improve vaccination rates and data sharing. Canada had previously held measles-free status for three decades but can regain this designation by halting the ongoing outbreak for at least 12 months.
In addition to Canada, the resurgence of measles is also noted in Mexico and the United States, raising concerns about the potential re-emergence of the disease across the continent.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy7e2lv4r8xo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss