Canada Faces Rising Measles Cases: Public Health Urges Vaccination Amid Growing Threat

A person's body is covered in a rash, measles.

(Adobe Stock 810865334 by Наталья Майшева)

As measles cases surge worldwide, Canada is witnessing an alarming increase in infections, prompting urgent warnings from public health officials. The Chief Public Health Officer of Canada, Theresa Tam, MBBS has issued a strong statement highlighting the risks of measles transmission and the critical need for vaccination. With 227 cases already reported in the first 2 months of 2025—surpassing all of 2024—the situation is becoming a growing public health concern, particularly in provinces such as New Brunswick, Ontario, Québec, and Manitoba.

“I strongly urge all Canadians to ensure they are vaccinated against measles—check to see if you are up to date before travelling. If needed, the vaccine should be administered at least two weeks before departure, but even last-minute vaccinations offer protection,” Tam wrote.

Why Are Measles Cases Increasing in Canada?

Several factors have contributed to this rise in measles cases:

1. Declining Vaccination Rates: Fewer school-aged children in Canada are receiving routine measles vaccinations, making them vulnerable to infection.
2. International Travel: Unvaccinated travelers are bringing measles back from other countries, leading to local outbreaks. Recent cases in Ontario, Québec, and British Columbia have been linked to travel-related exposure.
3. Highly Contagious Nature of Measles: The virus spreads easily in crowded places, including schools, daycares, healthcare facilities, and social gatherings. Without immunity, over 90% of exposed individuals become infected.
4. Increased Spring Break Travel: More people traveling globally increases the likelihood of exposure, further driving community transmission upon return.

The Dangers of Measles: More Than Just a Rash

Measles is not just a childhood illness—it can lead to severe complications, hospitalization, and death, especially in vulnerable populations. Some of the most dangerous complications include:

• Pneumonia, a leading cause of measles-related deaths
• Brain inflammation (encephalitis), which can lead to long-term neurological damage
• Permanent hearing loss or deafness
• Miscarriage or premature birth in pregnant individuals

The highest-risk groups include:

• Children under 5 years old
• Adults over 20 years old
• Pregnant individuals
• Immunocompromised individuals (eg, those with cancer or autoimmune diseases)

Public Health Recommendations: How to Stay Protected

The measles vaccine (MMR—measles, mumps, rubella) is the best defense against the disease. Health officials strongly urge Canadians to check their vaccination status and get immunized before traveling. The following groups should ensure they are protected:

• Infants (6 to 12 months): Should receive an early dose if traveling to high-risk areas.
• Children and Adolescents: Must receive both recommended doses of the MMR vaccine.
• Adults born in 1970 or later: Should ensure they’ve received 2 doses.
• Adults born before 1970: If unvaccinated, they should get at least 1 dose, especially before traveling.

Recognizing Measles Symptoms

Measles symptoms usually appear 7 to 14 days after exposure and include:

• High fever
• Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
• Runny nose
• Persistent cough
• Red rash that starts on the face and spreads across the body

If you suspect you have measles while traveling or after returning to Canada, follow these steps:

• Wear a medical mask and avoid contact with others.
• Notify airline, cruise, or border staff upon arrival.
• Call ahead before visiting a health care facility to prevent exposing others.

Urgent Call for Action: Vaccination is Key

Measles is entirely preventable through vaccination. However, only high immunization rates can stop its spread. With global cases rising and community outbreaks in Canada, public health officials stress that now is the time to act.

Protect yourself, your family, and your community—get vaccinated today. By working together, Canadians can stop measles outbreaks before they grow and prevent unnecessary suffering from this highly contagious disease.