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Global medical specialists announced on Monday that Canada is not regarded as measles-free due to continuing outbreaks. This situation comes as childhood vaccination rates fall and the highly contagious virus continues to spread across North and South America.

Outbreak Statistics and Tragic Outcomes

Canada has recorded 5,138 measles cases in the current year and two deaths. Both victims were babies who contracted the measles virus in the womb and delivered early.

Eradication of measles is a significant status, but it represents a hard-won battle against the contagious illness. A country earns this status when it shows it has stopped continuous spread of the virus within local communities, though occasional cases might still occur from international travel.

Recognizing Measles Symptoms

The disease usually starts with a high fever followed by a telltale rash that starts on the face and neck. While most people recover, it is one of the primary reasons of childhood mortality, according to international health organizations. Serious complications, including vision loss and swelling of the brain, are frequently seen in infants and older adults.

“This is profoundly disappointing news. It’s extremely concerning. Frankly, it’s embarrassing,” said an infectious disease expert, from Brown University public health specialist. “No nation with Canada’s resources – or other countries in North America even – should lose their measles elimination status.”

Background Information and Immunization Achievements

Canada eliminated measles in 1998, with the US shortly after. After highly successful vaccination campaigns, the Western Hemisphere became the first region in the world to be free of measles in 2016. Medical authorities calculate the measles vaccine averted over six million deaths in the region between the past two decades.

Present Difficulties

However, immunization levels have subsequently dropped below the 95 percent threshold required to prevent epidemics. Large outbreaks in Venezuela and Brazil in 2018 and 2019 cost the region its elimination status. It was regained in 2024, but ends again with Canada’s loss.

Experts from the regional health agency, a public health organization, made the determination after reviewing information on Canada’s outbreaks that demonstrated the virus has been circulating without interruption for a year.

“As a region, we have eliminated measles twice,” stated Dr. Barbosa, director of the Pan American Health Organization. “We can accomplish this once again.”

Action Plans

In a statement, national health authorities indicated they were collaborating with public and local organizations to improve vaccination coverage, exchange information and offer scientifically-supported recommendations.

• Boosting immunization coverage
• Enhancing data sharing
• Offering evidence-based advice
• Public involvement
• Government collaboration