Canada Loses Measles-Free Status After Major Outbreak

The country has been battling a major measles outbreak since October 2024, with over 5,100 confirmed cases and two deaths reported across 10 provinces and territories this year.

Canada was originally declared measles-free in 1998, but the Public Health Agency of Canada announced on Monday that the same strain of the virus has been circulating continuously for more than a year, leading to the loss of its elimination status.

According to national health data, 88% of infections this year have occurred in unvaccinated individuals. Experts warn that at least 95% of the population must receive two doses of the vaccine to prevent outbreaks and safeguard those who cannot be immunized, such as infants.

As per officials, it is also confirmed that the Americas region as a whole has lost its measles elimination status.