A major measles outbreak in Canada is threatening to undo decades of progress and could cost the Americas their measles elimination status—first achieved in 2016.
Since October 2024, more than 5,100 cases and two infant deaths have been reported across nine canadian provinces. The outbreak, which began at a wedding in eastern Canada, marks the country’s worst measles surge in decades.
“It’s tremendously disappointing,” said Dr. Lynora Saxinger, an infectious diseases specialist at the University of Alberta. “I never thought I’d see a massive measles outbreak here. For most of my career, there were 10 cases a year or less.”
Health experts blame falling childhood vaccination rates, misinformation, and disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. .
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines “elimination” as the absence of continuous transmission for 12 months or more. If Canada’s outbreak remains uncontrolled, it could cost the entire region its measles-free designation.
U.S. Facing Similar Threat
The United States (US), which has held its own elimination status since 2000, is also at risk after reporting 1,648 cases and three deaths this year, the highest in 25 years, says Independent report.
Ongoing outbreaks in South Carolina and Utah are fuelling concern. South Carolina has recorded 37 cases, mainly among unvaccinated schoolchildren, while Utah has confirmed 64 cases, 61 of them unvaccinated. Both outbreaks may be linked to a deadly cluster in West Texas that began in January, killing two children.
Vaccine Hesitancy Undermines Progress
The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is 97 percent effective, yet fewer than 92.5% of U.S. kindergarteners were vaccinated for the 2024-2025 school year—below the 95% threshold needed for herd immunity.
Canada’s coverage has also slipped below the WHO’s recommended level.
“The resurgence we’re seeing is not due to vaccine failure, it’s a failure to vaccinate,” said Dr. Susan Kressly, president of the American Academy of Pediatrics. “Even one child dying from measles is one too many.”
A Preventable Setback
The Pan American Health Organization warns that losing elimination status would represent a major setback for regional health security. Both Canada and the U.S. are now intensifying vaccination campaigns to halt transmission before the end of the year.
