Canada has officially lost its measles elimination status after a year-long outbreak that began in October 2024, the Public Health Agency of Canada announced on Monday. The Pan American Health Organization verified continuous transmission of the same measles strain for over 12 months.
As of October 25, 2025, Canada has reported 5,138 measles cases and two tragic deaths, both premature infants born with congenital measles. While recent weeks have seen a slowdown in new infections, the outbreak persisted beyond the one-year mark, driven largely by under-vaccinated communities.
Canada first achieved measles elimination back in 1998, marking 27 years of being free from endemic measles transmission. According to health authorities, the country can regain its elimination status once there are no new cases linked to the current strain for at least 12 months.
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness spread through respiratory droplets and aerosols. Typical symptoms—high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a distinctive rash—emerge one to two weeks after exposure. Severe cases can lead to pneumonia and other serious complications.
Public health experts are now doubling down on vaccination campaigns, outreach programs, and data-driven monitoring to interrupt the chain of transmission and protect vulnerable populations. The coming months will be critical to restoring Canada’s hard-earned status and preventing future outbreaks.
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Canada loses measles elimination status after year-long outbreak
cgtn.com
