Measles Cases on the Rise in Canada, With 95 Reported So Far This Year

Measles is making a concerning return to Canada this year. According to the latest data from the Public Health Agency of Canada, as of February 21, 95 cases of measles have been reported. British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec are the provinces most affected by the outbreak. By this time last year, only four cases had been reported, and a total of 146 cases were recorded throughout 2024.

Dr. Isaac Bogoch, an infectious disease specialist at Toronto General Hospital, noted that in Ontario, the number of measles cases in February is already nearly as high as the total number recorded in 2024. Measles is one of the most contagious diseases, particularly in areas with low vaccination rates.

Dr. Theresa Tam, Chief Public Health Officer of the Public Health Agency of Canada, has warned that measles is a serious disease, with about one in five infected children requiring hospitalization.