Canada has lost its measles elimination status due to ongoing outbreaks, as vaccination rates have fallen below the 95% coverage needed to prevent the spread of the highly contagious virus. The decision was announced on Monday by experts from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), a UN health agency, after analysing data showing continuous transmission for over a year.
Canada has recorded 5,138 measles cases this year and two deaths, both babies exposed to the virus in the womb and born prematurely. Measles typically begins with a high fever and a rash on the face and neck, and while most recover, it remains a leading cause of death among young children, with serious complications including blindness and brain swelling.
The loss of elimination status is a symbolic but significant setback. Canada first eliminated measles in 1998, and the Americas became the first region declared measles-free in 2016. However, large outbreaks in Venezuela and Brazil in 2018-2019 cost the region its status, which was reclaimed in 2024 only to be lost again with Canada's current outbreaks.
Jennifer Nuzzo, an infectious disease expert at Brown University, called the development 'deeply disheartening, worrisome, and embarrassing', noting that no country with Canada's resources should lose elimination status. PAHO Director Dr Jarbas Barbosa expressed confidence that the region can achieve elimination a third time, while Canadian health officials said they are working to improve vaccination coverage and share data.
