Canada loses measles elimination status after ongoing outbreaks

Published: Monday, November 10, 2025 at 4:43 pm

Canada Loses Measles Elimination Status Amidst Rising Outbreaks

Toronto, ON - Canada has lost its measles elimination status, according to international health experts, due to ongoing outbreaks across the country. This designation, a symbolic victory in the fight against the highly contagious virus, signifies that continuous spread within local communities has been stopped, although occasional cases from travel may still occur.

The loss of status comes after the virus began spreading over a year ago. This year alone, Canada has reported 5,138 measles cases and two deaths, both infants who contracted the virus in the womb.

The Americas, once the first region globally to eliminate measles in 2016, is facing renewed challenges. The region had previously lost its elimination status due to outbreaks in Venezuela and Brazil. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) determined Canada's loss of status after analyzing data showing continuous spread for a year.

The United States is also at risk of losing its elimination status, which it achieved in 2000. While a large outbreak in Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma has subsided, current outbreaks are ongoing. The U.S. has seen its worst year for measles in over three decades, with 1,681 confirmed cases and 44 outbreaks.

Mexico is also grappling with a significant outbreak, with over 4,430 cases and 21 deaths reported in Chihuahua. Genetic strains of the virus in Canada, the U.S., and Mexico have been linked, with outbreaks affecting certain Mennonite communities. Outbreaks have also been reported in Mennonite communities in Belize, Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, and Paraguay.

The PAHO has confirmed over 12,000 cases this year across at least 10 countries, with the majority in Canada, the U.S., and Mexico.

BNN's Perspective: The resurgence of measles in North America is a concerning development. While vaccination remains the most effective defense against this preventable disease, declining vaccination rates, particularly in certain communities, are creating vulnerabilities. Public health officials must continue to emphasize the importance of vaccination and address vaccine hesitancy through education and outreach. Maintaining high vaccination rates is crucial to protecting public health and preventing further outbreaks.

Keywords: measles, outbreaks, Canada, vaccination, elimination status, Pan American Health Organization, United States, Mexico, Mennonite communities, public health, contagious virus, vaccine hesitancy

Full Story