Measles Cases Spike Sharply in Ontario and Alberta
Ontario reported 223 new measles cases last week-the largest weekly increase since the outbreak began in October 2024-while Alberta has confirmed 210 cases as of May 2, 2025. The Southwestern Public Health region in Ontario and Alberta’s South Zone are among the hardest hit. Hospitalizations are mounting, with 84 people admitted in Ontario alone, including 63 children and several requiring intensive care.
Highly Contagious Virus Threatens Under-Vaccinated Communities
Measles spreads rapidly among unvaccinated individuals, even in largely immunized populations. Experts stress that 95% vaccination coverage is necessary to prevent outbreaks, yet many regions fall far short. Ontario’s Halton Region reported only 24.6% coverage among seven-year-olds in 2022-23, while no Alberta public health unit has met the target.
Pandemic Disruptions and Misinformation Fuel Declines in Immunization
COVID-19 caused significant interruptions to routine childhood vaccinations, limiting access to primary care and in-person appointments. Additionally, vaccine misinformation proliferating on social media undermines public confidence. Infectious disease specialist Dr. Michael Gardam highlights the challenge of combating online anti-vaccine narratives that spread faster than public health messaging.
Calls for Stronger Leadership and Community Engagement
Former Alberta Chief Medical Officer Dr. Mark Joffe criticized leadership failures and public complacency, urging tailored outreach through faith and cultural leaders to reach under-immunized groups. Alberta Medical Association President Shelley Duggan demands weekly public updates and expanded vaccination clinics, including pharmacy access, to improve coverage.
Public Health Response and Ongoing Challenges
Ontario’s Health Minister Sylvia Jones acknowledges efforts behind the scenes, including renewed public education campaigns and directives to update childhood vaccinations. However, provincial chief medical officers have been largely silent publicly amid growing concern. Meanwhile, Alberta reports a 78% increase in measles vaccine uptake in April compared to March, signaling some progress.
Protecting the Most Vulnerable
Children under five, pregnant people, and those with weakened immune systems face the highest risk of severe complications from measles, a vaccine-preventable disease known for fever, cough, red eyes, and a distinctive rash. No deaths have been reported in Canada during this outbreak, but experts warn of the potential for serious outcomes without swift action.
As measles cases surge, the call to action is clear: ramp up vaccination efforts, counter misinformation, and engage communities to protect public health. Would you like guidance on where to get vaccinated or tips to address vaccine hesitancy?
