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Canada loses measles elimination status after year of outbreaks, Alberta hardest hit
OTTAWA- Canada has officially lost its measles elimination status following more than a year of sustained outbreaks, marking the first time since 1998 that the country has failed to contain domestic transmission of the highly contagious disease.
The Pan American Health Organization notified the Public Health Agency of Canada this week that the country no longer meets the criteria for elimination, which requires at least 12 consecutive months without endemic spread. Canada recorded more than 5,000 confirmed cases and two infant deaths since October 2024, with infections occurring almost exclusively among unvaccinated individuals.
Health experts describe the loss as a major setback for public health and a warning about declining vaccination coverage. The outbreaks began after the virus was imported by an international traveller attending a wedding in New Brunswick. Transmission spread quickly through under-immunized communities in Ontario and Alberta before reaching every province except Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as the Northwest Territories.
Alberta has experienced the highest number of measles cases per capita in North America, accounting for roughly 38 per cent of Canada’s total infections. Since March, the province has reported 1,956 confirmed cases, 154 hospitalizations and one death. Most cases are among children under 17 who were not vaccinated as children. According to provincial data, “measles transmission is currently occurring in Alberta, affecting individuals of all ages – including infants, children and adults.” The Alberta government notes that “public health continues to take proactive steps to limit further spread and ensure Albertans have timely, clear information to protect themselves and their families.”
Vaccination efforts have surged since the outbreak began, with a 50 per cent increase in doses administered provincewide since March. Uptake rose sharply in the hardest-hit regions, climbing 83 per cent in the south zone and 73 per cent in the north zone, reflecting the impact of targeted outreach and expanded clinic hours.
The Public Health Agency of Canada says the country can regain its measles-free designation once the current strain stops circulating for at least 12 months. The agency and the World Health Organization are urging all provinces and territories to strengthen vaccination programs, establish national registries and improve rapid outbreak response capacity.
Alberta health authorities are continuing to post weekly updates as transmission slows. As of November 7, two Albertans remained in hospital with measles. The province’s outbreak has now lasted more than eight months, outpacing the number of cases recorded in the United States this year.
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