Canada Loses Measles Elimination Status After 27 Years

Canada has officially lost its measles elimination status, a designation it held since 1998.

 

This development follows a year-long outbreak resulting in over 5,000 reported cases across nine provinces and one territory.

 

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) confirmed the status revocation, citing continuous transmission of the same measles strain for more than 12 months.

 

Health experts attribute the resurgence to declining vaccination rates, which have fallen below the 95% threshold necessary to prevent outbreaks.

 

By 2024, regional coverage stood at just 79%, raising concerns about the potential for measles to become endemic once again.

 

In response, the Public Health Agency of Canada has committed to improving vaccination coverage, enhancing data-sharing, and boosting surveillance efforts.

 

Health officials emphasize that regaining elimination status will require sustained efforts to interrupt transmission and increase immunization rates nationwide.