Push for a Unified Approach

Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Kieran Moore, is calling for the modernization of the province’s vaccine registry and the creation of a national immunization schedule. His annual report to the legislature warns that the fragmented system across provinces has left gaps in vaccine coverage, contributing to the recent resurgence of measles.

Gaps in Current Systems

Each province and territory maintains its own immunization records, a patchwork approach that Moore says has led to confusion for parents and blind spots for public health officials. While provinces such as British Columbia, Alberta, Quebec, Manitoba and Nova Scotia have modernized their registries, Ontario remains behind, relying on three separate systems for schools, COVID-19 records, and billing data.

Growing Vaccine Hesitancy

Moore’s report highlights a troubling rise in vaccine skepticism. Surveys show parental doubt about routine immunizations doubled between 2019 and 2024, while childhood vaccination rates fell after the COVID-19 pandemic. Public health experts warn that without centralized data, it is harder to track effectiveness and safety — leaving Canadians vulnerable to outbreaks of once-controlled diseases.

Challenges for Families and Health Officials

Parents are often forced to act as record keepers, submitting vaccination forms to schools, which then pass them to local health units. Toronto’s associate medical officer of health, Dr. Vinita Dubey, described the process as “very manual” and outdated, with systems that cannot communicate with one another. This inefficiency has delayed responses to coverage gaps and outbreaks.

Federal Coordination Efforts

The Public Health Agency of Canada is working with provinces and territories to link existing registries. As of October 2024, six jurisdictions — Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Yukon — had submitted vaccine data to the federal system. Ontario is in the process of integrating its records and developing a digital identity tool to allow patients easier access to their health information.

Economic and Public Health Benefits

Moore emphasized that a national vaccine schedule would not only strengthen disease prevention but also reduce costs through bulk purchasing and avoid duplication of doses. Centralized systems could also prevent unnecessary hospitalizations, easing the burden on Canada’s health-care system.

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Travel-Linked Case Confirmed

Ottawa Public Health (OPH) announced Thursday that the city has recorded its fifth measles case this year. The infection was contracted during recent travel to western Canada, officials said.

Exposure Sites Identified

OPH is advising residents who visited specific locations between August 5 and August 8 to monitor for symptoms. The sites include:

• Shoppers Drug Mart, 702 Bank St. – Aug. 5, 9–11:30 p.m.
• Michaels, 165 Trainyards Dr. – Aug. 5, 8:15–10:30 p.m.
• Fitness Lab, 34 Beech St. – Aug. 6, 5:45–8:45 a.m.
• Wilf and Ada’s, 510 Bank St. – Aug. 7, 12:30–4 p.m.
• Izakaya Shingen, 201 Bank St. – Aug. 8, 5–8 p.m.
• Cineplex Odeon, 2385 City Park Dr. – Aug. 8, 6:50 p.m. showing of Fantastic Four: First Steps.

Hospital Notification Underway

The Ottawa Hospital confirmed an isolated measles case in its General campus emergency department, prompting notification of staff and patients potentially exposed during that visit. OPH confirmed it was the same patient identified in their advisory.

Risk Assessment Remains Low

Health officials stressed that the overall risk to the public remains low. No evidence of local transmission has been found in 2025, though Ontario’s ongoing outbreak has reported over 2,300 cases province-wide. Two of Ottawa’s five cases are linked to that outbreak.

Guidance for Residents

People present at the listed locations during the stated times should monitor for fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, or rash for 21 days. Those who develop symptoms are urged to call ahead before visiting a clinic, wear a mask, and inform providers of possible exposure.

Preventing Future Spread

OPH reminds residents that the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is the most effective protection. Two doses provide about 99% immunity. Immunization records can be checked through Ontario’s Immunization Connect system or the CANImmunize app.

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Infant Infection Sparks Alarming Realization

When Alberta mother Morgan Birch noticed a rash and fever in her four-month-old daughter Kimie, she assumed it was a mild post-vaccination reaction. But a closer look by her grandmother revealed something unthinkable: measles. Lab tests confirmed the diagnosis, shocking Birch, who believed the disease had long been eradicated.

Outbreak Surpasses North American Peers

Kimie is one of more than 3,800 Canadians infected with measles so far in 2025—nearly three times the number reported in the United States. Despite Canada’s smaller population, the outbreak has positioned the country among the top 10 globally, with Alberta recording the highest per capita measles spread rate in North America.

Provinces Struggle With Containment

The outbreak began in Ontario in late 2024, reportedly after an attendee at a religious gathering in New Brunswick returned home infected. The virus spread quickly in Low German-speaking Mennonite communities in southwestern Ontario, where vaccination rates are historically low due to cultural and religious beliefs. Alberta has since emerged as the new epicentre, with health officials unable to pinpoint a specific origin for the rapid rise in cases.

Vaccine Hesitancy Amplifies Spread

Public health experts cite low MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccination rates as the primary driver behind the outbreak. Post-pandemic skepticism, fueled by misinformation and distrust in medical institutions, has resulted in declining immunisation numbers. In southern Alberta, MMR vaccine administration dropped by nearly 50% between 2019 and 2024.

Healthcare Workers Raise Alarms

Catalina Friesen, who runs a mobile clinic near Aylmer, Ontario, said the community’s first known case appeared in February, and cases spiked shortly after. She observed that misinformation and cultural mistrust of the healthcare system have worsened since the pandemic. “We’re not anti-medicine,” she said, “but there’s a lot of fear that’s grown in recent years.”

Government Response and Public Health Efforts

Health officials have since lowered the age threshold for MMR vaccinations in Alberta and ramped up outreach efforts through bulletins and media campaigns. Despite these steps, the response remains subdued compared to the urgency seen during COVID-19. Experts like Dr. Janna Shapiro from the University of Toronto warn that unless vaccination rates rise, the outbreak will persist.

Families Urge Action After First-Hand Impact

Although Kimie has now recovered, her mother says the situation remains a stark warning. “My four-month-old shouldn’t have gotten measles in 2025,” Birch said. She urged other parents to follow public health guidance: “Vaccinate to protect those who can’t protect themselves.”

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Researchers Monitor Measles in Alberta Wastewater

In response to Alberta’s escalating measles outbreaks, scientists have begun analyzing the province’s wastewater for traces of the virus—hoping to use it as an early warning system.

Detection Linked to COVID-Era Surveillance Network

Starting in April 2024, a team of researchers from the University of Alberta and the University of Calgary adapted existing COVID-19 wastewater testing infrastructure to include measles detection. Using samples from 12 municipal wastewater treatment sites, they identified signs of measles virus activity—confirming the virus has been circulating for several months.

Rising Infections Fuel Public Health Concern

As of mid-July, over 1,300 measles cases have been reported since the outbreak began in March. Scientists believe the real number may be higher, citing underreporting in affected areas. According to health experts, most of the infections are in unvaccinated individuals, with more than 100 people hospitalized so far.

Potential for Early Outbreak Detection

Dr. Xiaoli Pang, a key developer of Alberta’s COVID-19 wastewater monitoring system, also created the test now used for measles. She believes the incubation period of up to two weeks may allow health officials to detect virus trends before clinical cases surge—just as they did with SARS-CoV-2 during the pandemic.

Limitations and Need for Continued Investment

Although promising, the researchers emphasize that wastewater surveillance should be used as a complementary tool, not a standalone solution. Current limitations include weekly—not daily—testing and a lack of real-time data. With waning funding post-pandemic, researchers stress the need for renewed investment to support broader and more frequent testing.

Government Reviewing Early Findings

Preliminary data has been shared with Alberta’s public health authorities. The provincial government acknowledged it is reviewing the information to determine its role in ongoing outbreak management.

Future of Wastewater Surveillance

Experts say wastewater monitoring could help identify emerging pathogens in the future, potentially detecting outbreaks before they spread widely. As concerns grow over infectious disease threats, researchers advocate for its integration into Canada’s long-term public health strategy.

“Wastewater is a powerful tool. We can’t afford to lose it,” said Dr. Pang.

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Alberta Reports North America’s Highest Measles Total

Alberta has now recorded more measles cases than the entire United States in 2024. As of Monday at noon, the province confirmed 1,314 cases—exceeding the U.S. total of 1,288 reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The outbreaks began in March and have since intensified across multiple regions of Alberta.

Medical Experts Raise Alarms Over Case Spike

Thirty new cases were reported between Friday and Monday, highlighting an ongoing surge. Pediatricians and infectious disease specialists say the outbreak has reached unprecedented levels. Dr. Sam Wong, pediatric section president with the Alberta Medical Association, expressed regret over missed early intervention. “We now have one province with more cases than a country ten times our size,” he said.

South, North, and Central Zones Hit Hardest

The south zone leads with 774 infections, followed by the north (385) and central (107). Calgary and Edmonton zones have reported 35 and 13 cases, respectively. Provincial data shows 102 hospitalizations, including 15 ICU admissions. No deaths have been reported to date.

Underreporting and Exposure Risks Remain

Alberta Health confirms many cases may be undetected or unreported. A province-wide exposure advisory remains in effect for the south and parts of the north. “We haven’t seen signs of this levelling off,” said Dr. Lynora Saxinger of the University of Alberta. “Large gatherings and back-to-school season could worsen the spread.”

Urgent Need for Mass Vaccination Campaigns

Health professionals are calling for province-wide immunization clinics, easier vaccine access, and early-dose programs for infants. Currently, the extra vaccine is only available in the hardest-hit zones. “Barriers to access still exist,” Saxinger added. “We must act before school resumes.”

Government Says Strategy Is Working

The Ministry of Primary and Preventative Health Services maintains its efforts are showing results. A spokesperson stated that case numbers have declined for four consecutive weeks and currently stand at 13 active cases. Vaccine clinic hours have expanded in high-risk areas, and the Don’t Get Measles, Get Immunized campaign will run through mid-August.

Public Health Still Urges Vigilance

Despite the provincial update, health experts remain cautious. “The transmission rate here is accelerating faster than Ontario’s,” said Dr. Craig Jenne, an infectious disease expert at the University of Calgary. “We’re approaching a tipping point if preventive measures aren’t scaled up.”

For vaccine clinic info and latest advisories, visit: alberta.ca/measles

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Atlantic Canada Faces Rising Risk from Low Measles Immunization

Public health experts are raising alarms after new data reveals that measles vaccination rates among children in the Maritimes remain below the threshold needed to prevent outbreaks. At least three of the four Atlantic provinces have confirmed their immunization rates fall short of the 95% target required to stop the spread of the highly contagious virus.

According to provincial data released this week, thousands of children across Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island remain unprotected from measles—a disease that can cause severe complications, especially in young children and those with weakened immune systems.

Provinces Report Alarming Immunization Gaps

Nova Scotia’s Department of Health reported that approximately 23% of children in the province were not fully vaccinated against measles in 2024. Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick each reported around 10% of children remain without full immunization.

Newfoundland and Labrador has not released current measles immunization data despite multiple inquiries. These figures fall significantly short of the 95% coverage needed to achieve herd immunity, as defined by public health guidelines.

Why 95% Immunization Matters

Measles is one of the most contagious airborne viruses, capable of lingering in the air for hours after an infected person has left the room. To effectively stop its transmission, 95% of a population must be immunized, according to Janna Shapiro, a post-doctoral fellow in immunology at the University of Toronto.

“Anything less, and you’re leaving cracks for the virus to spread, especially among infants and immunocompromised individuals who can’t be vaccinated,” Shapiro said.

Risk of Measles Outbreaks in the Region

The concern is not just theoretical. Measles cases are rising globally, and Canada has already recorded several imported and community-transmitted infections in recent years. Public health experts warn that the Maritimes, with its below-target vaccination coverage, could be vulnerable to a rapid outbreak if even a single case is introduced.

Children who are not fully vaccinated—either missing one of the two recommended doses or entirely unvaccinated—are at greatest risk. In some communities, hesitancy, misinformation, and healthcare access barriers contribute to gaps in immunization.

Health Officials Urge Action

Provincial health departments are encouraging parents to check their children’s vaccination records and ensure they are up to date. Many provinces have begun outreach efforts, including reminder letters and public awareness campaigns, particularly as children prepare to return to school in the fall.

“The science is clear,” said one Nova Scotia health spokesperson. “Vaccination is safe, effective, and critical to keeping our communities protected from preventable diseases like measles.”

Public Response and Next Steps

While public health officials continue to emphasize the importance of routine childhood vaccinations, experts say more must be done to close the gap—including stronger data reporting, education, and equitable access to clinics across rural and underserved regions.

National immunization programs are also under review, as Canada’s federal and provincial health authorities assess strategies to improve vaccine uptake amid growing concerns about misinformation.

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Concern Grows as Measles Cases Climb in Alberta

A growing number of Calgary parents and pediatricians are urging the Alberta government to offer early measles vaccinations to all infants provincewide, as measles outbreaks continue to escalate. As of Wednesday afternoon, the province had reported 1,078 confirmed measles cases — a significant jump since the outbreaks began in March.

Shanaya von Scheel, a Calgary mother of a seven-month-old, is one of many concerned parents who feel left out of Alberta’s current vaccination strategy. “It’s hard not to worry constantly,” she said. “I just want to protect my child, and it feels like not enough is being done.”

Regional Restrictions on Vaccine Access

The early measles vaccine dose — given between six and 11 months of age — is currently available only in Alberta’s south, central, and north zones, where community spread is widespread. Calgary and Edmonton infants are excluded unless they plan to travel to affected regions.

The routine immunization schedule in Alberta recommends measles vaccination at 12 and 18 months. The early dose is meant to provide short-term protection in outbreak areas, but does not replace these two routine shots.

Von Scheel, after discussing travel plans with a public health nurse, was eventually able to get her baby vaccinated. But she questions why travel is a requirement. “Why wait for it to spread here?” she asked. “We should be proactive, not reactive.”

Experts Call for Preventative Action

Medical professionals are also voicing concern. Dr. Joan Robinson, a pediatric infectious disease expert at Edmonton’s Stollery Children’s Hospital, believes it’s only a matter of time before major cities like Calgary and Edmonton see higher case numbers. “I think our turn is yet to come,” she warned.

Dr. Sam Wong, head of the pediatrics section at the Alberta Medical Association, emphasized the vulnerability of babies. “Their immune systems are immature. They’re at a higher risk of complications,” he said, noting that measles can lead to pneumonia, brain inflammation, and even fatal neurological conditions.

Both doctors agree the government should expand eligibility to any concerned parents seeking early protection for their infants.

Government Maintains Current Strategy

Despite these calls, Alberta’s current policy remains unchanged. In a written statement, Primary and Preventative Health Services officials said the early dose will continue to be limited to outbreak zones, citing low transmission and high immunization coverage in Calgary and Edmonton.

“To focus efforts where they will have the most impact, Alberta is prioritizing early-dose availability in zones experiencing active outbreaks and broader community spread,” the statement said, aligning with similar policies in Ontario.

Officials added that the situation is under constant review and adjustments will be made based on evolving public health recommendations.

Community Braces as Stampede Approaches

With Calgary’s Stampede around the corner, von Scheel and others are bracing for a possible spike in measles exposure due to increased travel and public gatherings.

Two new cases were reported in Calgary on Wednesday, bringing the city’s total to 22. Edmonton has confirmed nine cases. In contrast, the south zone leads with 705, followed by 237 in the north and 105 in the central region.

“Last year, the risk was close to zero,” Dr. Robinson said. “Now, it increases daily. We need to adapt before it’s too late.”

As Alberta’s measles outbreak evolves, many parents continue to hope the province will reconsider — not just in response to numbers, but in preparation for what may come next.

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Kamloops Reports First Measles Case of the Year

On Tuesday, Interior Health confirmed Kamloops’ first measles case of 2025, contributing to a growing total of 49 confirmed infections across British Columbia. Health officials stated the source of exposure in this case remains unknown, making contact tracing more difficult and increasing concern over community spread.

Locations Visited by the Infected Individual

Interior Health released a list of locations visited by the Kamloops case on June 16 and June 18, including Denny’s Restaurant, Shoppers Drug Mart, and Aberdeen Mall. Visits occurred between noon and 11:35 p.m. on June 16, and between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. on June 18. Direct follow-ups are ongoing with individuals potentially exposed at these locations.

Chilliwack Sees Multiple Unvaccinated Cases

Fraser Health has confirmed three measles infections in unvaccinated residents of Chilliwack since Friday. These infections appear to be locally acquired. Exposure warnings were issued for Walmart and Mark’s on June 16, and a barbershop on June 18.

Province-Wide Exposure Alerts Continue

The B.C. Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) also reported a potential measles exposure at the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal on June 20, between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Individuals on the following ferry sailings may have been exposed:

• 12:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. sailings from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay
• 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. sailings from Swartz Bay to Tsawwassen

Additional exposure sites include:

• Hot and Cold Café in Victoria (June 20, 3:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.)
• Marriott Civic Autograph Hotel in Surrey (June 20, 8:30 p.m.–11:00 p.m., and June 21, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.)

Majority of B.C. Cases Linked to Northern Health Region

According to the BCCDC, most of the 49 measles cases in the province have occurred in Northern Health. A bulletin earlier this month confirmed multiple lab-verified infections in the remote community of Wonowon, roughly 90 kilometres from Fort St. John.

Risk Level and Health Advisory

Although the current public risk is considered low, health authorities are urging all residents—particularly those born after 1970—to verify their vaccination status. Measles spreads through airborne droplets and is one of the most contagious viral diseases.

Symptoms and Prevention Measures

Measles symptoms can appear 7 to 21 days after exposure and typically begin with fever, dry cough, red eyes, and runny nose, followed by a rash starting on the face and spreading downward. Complications may include pneumonia, brain inflammation, and in rare cases, death.

Health officials strongly advise receiving two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine. Individuals unsure of their immunization history should consult a healthcare provider immediately.

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Surge in Infections Continues in Algoma Region

A measles outbreak in northern Ontario has entered its third consecutive week of growth, with Algoma Public Health reporting 34 new cases. The region, which includes Sault Ste. Marie, now has a total of 115 confirmed infections, including three hospitalizations.

The increase follows the area’s first reported case of the year on April 23. According to Public Health Ontario, the province recorded 96 new cases this past week, pushing the total since October to 2,179.

Regional Context and Comparison

Dr. John Tuinema, associate medical officer of health for Algoma, said the recent rise in infections was anticipated. He noted that Algoma’s outbreak timeline lags behind the more heavily impacted Southwestern Ontario region, which began seeing cases several months earlier.

Still, Tuinema expressed optimism that the overall impact in northern Ontario will remain lower due to differences in population and vaccine coverage.

Vaccination Rates Offer Protection

High immunization rates in the region are helping to contain the virus’s spread. Algoma Public Health reports that 87% of seven-year-olds and 97% of 17-year-olds are fully vaccinated against measles.

“When we do have a case, it quickly hits that wall of herd immunity,” said Tuinema. He added that most recent cases have occurred in unvaccinated individuals and within private household settings, rather than in schools or public venues.

Southwestern Ontario Cases Begin to Decline

Meanwhile, Southwestern Ontario—considered the epicenter of the province’s outbreak—has seen a total of 751 measles cases. This week, the region recorded 12 new infections, continuing a downward trend over the past month.

Public health officials say the decline in new cases in the south, along with strong vaccination coverage in the north, are encouraging signs that the outbreak may be coming under control.

Ongoing Monitoring and Public Guidance

Public Health Ontario continues to monitor the situation across the province and urges residents to ensure their vaccinations are up to date. Measles, a highly contagious viral disease, can lead to severe complications, especially in children and the immunocompromised.

While the spread appears to be slowing in some areas, health officials warn that localized spikes—such as the one currently unfolding in Algoma—highlight the need for continued vigilance.

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