OTTAWA, ON — November 10, 2025 — Leads & Copy — Canada is currently grappling with a significant, multi-jurisdictional measles outbreak that began in October 2024, affecting numerous provinces and territories.
The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) is collaborating with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and various partners to address the situation, focusing on improved vaccination coverage and data sharing.
PAHO has informed PHAC that Canada’s measles elimination status is no longer valid due to sustained transmission of the same measles virus strain for over a year, according to recent epidemiological and laboratory data reviewed by PAHO’s Measles and Rubella Elimination Regional Monitoring and Re-Verification Commission.
PHAC is working with federal, provincial, territorial, and community partners to implement coordinated actions aimed at improving vaccination coverage, strengthening data sharing, enhancing surveillance efforts, and providing evidence-based guidance.
In October 2025, Health Ministers from across Canada discussed the measles situation and committed to coordinated actions, including strategies to build trust through community engagement. They also recognized the importance of health security in protecting Canada against public health threats.
Canada can regain its measles elimination status once the transmission of the measles strain associated with the current outbreak is interrupted for at least 12 months.
The measles vaccine remains the best way to protect individuals and families. Increased vaccination coverage is crucial to prevent outbreaks and safeguard communities from this preventable disease.
Source: Health Canada
Source: Health Canada
