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Canada Loses Measles Elimination Status After Year of Sustained Transmission

PAHO confirmed yearlong circulation of one strain that ends Canada's measles‑free standing.

A woman passes near healthy awareness posters related to the measles outbreak during a public health awareness campaign, at the Taber Health Centre, in the largely Mennonite community of Taber, Alberta, Canada, October 27, 2025. REUTERS/Ahmed Zakot
A vial of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is pictured at International Community Health Services, Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)
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Warning signage for suspected cases of measles outside the main entrance of Woodstock General Hospital in Woodstock, Ont., May 22, 2025.

Overview

  • PHAC said PAHO formally revoked Canada’s status on Nov. 10 after verification that the same measles strain has circulated for more than 12 months, ending a 27‑year designation.
  • The outbreak that began in October 2024 has produced over 5,100 reported cases across 10 jurisdictions as of Oct. 25, 2025, with transmission slowing but continuing in under‑vaccinated pockets.
  • Ontario declared its provincial outbreak over on Oct. 6, while Alberta remains among the hardest hit with cases nearing 2,000 and sporadic activity continuing in several provinces.
  • Public‑health reports cite lower childhood MMR coverage as a key driver, with spread concentrated in under‑vaccinated communities; two infant deaths were recorded in Alberta and Ontario.
  • PHAC is working with PAHO and provincial and territorial partners to boost vaccination, strengthen surveillance and data sharing, and Canada can regain its status after 12 months without circulation of the outbreak strain.