Canada loses measles elimination status after year-long outbreak

Canada has officially lost its measles elimination status, the Public Health Agency of Canada announced on Monday.

The Pan American Health Organization confirmed the change after finding that the same measles strain has been spreading continuously in Canada for over a year. The outbreak, which began in October 2024, has become large and widespread across multiple regions.

By October 25, 2025, there were 5,138 reported cases and two deaths—both premature infants with congenital measles. Although the spread has slowed recently, it continues mainly in under-vaccinated communities.

Canada first eliminated measles in 1998. Health officials said the country can regain that status once the current strain stops spreading for at least 12 months.

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads through the air and causes fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash. Severe cases can lead to pneumonia and other complications.

Credit : CGTN