‘Measles is very contagious and can cause serious illness, with complications including pneumonia, deafness, brain inflammation, and, in severe cases, death,’ says Dr. Theresa Tam
Medical experts are urging Canadians to ensure they are vaccinated for the measles virus, especially if they intend to travel for March break.
“Canada’s Health Portfolio has a longstanding history of constructive bilateral engagement with U.S. health agencies and the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) continues to connect with U.S. Centres for Disease Control colleagues, as required, to exchange information on various public health issues, including measles,” according to a PHAC email to the National Post.
Though parents are still advised by PHAC to contact the CDC to learn more about exposure risks in the U.S.
“In 2024, we saw a sharp increase in measles cases globally compared to 2023,” says Tam. “In Canada this concerning trend has continued with more cases reported in the first two months of 2025 than in all of 2024.”
In her statement, she highlighted the risks posed by low vaccination rates among school-aged children and called for urgent action in Canada to prevent further spread. As of March 6, Tam noted, Canada has recorded 227 measles cases this year, many requiring hospitalization. Most cases are unvaccinated or under-vaccinated children who have been exposed in their communities, such as in social events, daycares, schools and health-care settings, the statement reads.
“Measles is very contagious and can cause serious illness, with complications including pneumonia, deafness, brain inflammation, and, in severe cases, death,” says Dr. Tam.
Cases can also occur when unvaccinated individuals travel to or from areas where measles is circulating, she adds.
Here’s what we know about measles outbreaks in Canada.
Where has measles hit hardest in Canada this year?
Ontario, Quebec, Manitoba, and New Brunswick have been particularly affected this year.
The National Post has reached out for comment from Ontario’s Chief Public Health Officer, Dr. Kieran Moore, but has yet to receive a response.
Manitoba has recorded five cases so far in 2025, some of which are linked to the ongoing outbreak originating from New Brunswick and Ontario.
How has measles become a virus increasingly picked up during travel?
Imported cases from countries where measles remains endemic have already contributed to outbreaks in Canada.
How have vaccination rates unfolded recently in Canada?
What is involved in getting vaccinated in Canada?
When a vaccine is required, it should be administered at least two weeks before departure, but even last-minute vaccinations offer protection.
For people who are not immune to measles…over 90 per cent of those exposed to the virus will become infected. Those at higher risk include children under five, adults over 20, pregnant individuals, and immunocompromised individuals.
Before travelling, Canadians are being urged to do the following:
- Infants (6 to 12 months old) travelling to high-risk areas receive an early measles vaccine dose — consult a health-care provider for guidance.
- Children and adolescents receive both doses of a measles-containing vaccine.
- Adults born in 1970 or later receive both doses of a measles-containing vaccine
- Those born before 1970 receive one dose if not immune, particularly if travelling to an area with active transmission.
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