Canada Loses Measles-Free Status After Nearly 30 Years Amid Declining Vaccination Rates

Canada has lost its measles elimination status after nearly three decades, following a year-long outbreak that the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) confirmed on Monday. The setback also affects the Americas region, which now loses its measles-free designation.

According to PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, the loss is “reversible” but serves as a warning to strengthen public health efforts. Canada has reported over 5,000 measles cases across nine provinces and one northern territory, with under-vaccinated communities driving the prolonged transmission.

Health experts say the resurgence of measles highlights serious lapses in vaccination outreach and growing vaccine hesitancy since the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Isaac Bogoch, an infectious disease specialist at Toronto General Hospital, described the situation as “a wake-up call” for Canada to improve accessibility and trust in immunization programs.

To maintain herd immunity, a 95% vaccination rate is required, as the measles vaccine is 97% effective after two doses. However, declining vaccination rates have allowed the virus to spread more easily, posing severe risks to children and vulnerable populations.

The Public Health Agency of Canada stated that while the spread has slowed, the outbreak persisted for over 12 months. The agency pledged to boost vaccination coverage, strengthen surveillance systems, and improve data sharing nationwide.

In Alberta, one of the hardest-hit provinces, cases have dropped by over 90% from their peak, with vaccination rates up 50% since March. Despite these gains, experts warn that losing measles elimination status is “a step backward,” symbolizing a return to preventable disease risks.

Other countries in the Americas, including the United States, Mexico, and Brazil, are also facing outbreaks as global vaccination rates decline—a concerning trend that could reverse decades of public health progress.