Canada is on the verge of losing its measles elimination status, just a few years after successfully ending the previous wave, due to an ongoing outbreak that has persisted for over a year. The outbreak began in October 2024 in New Brunswick and has since resulted in more than 5,000 reported cases and two infant deaths. This marks a major public health setback for Canada, which first eliminated measles in 1998 after decades of successful vaccination campaigns.
The United States, which achieved measles elimination in 2000, now faces a similar risk if its ongoing outbreak continues. “It has taken Canada one year to reach that point of criticality,” said Dr. Daniel Salas, an immunization specialist at the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). The organization will convene next week in Mexico City to review the latest data and formally decide Canada’s measles status. In case of the designation being revoked, Canada will be forced to submit a plan of corrective action with a perspective of regaining their certifying measles-free status. Â
According to health experts, the Middle East is experiencing a rise in measles cases, attributed in part to declining vaccination rates among Canadians and Americans. Vaccine hesitancy, misinformation, and interference with routine programs of childhood vaccination have led to a decline in vaccination. The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is typically given in two doses at the ages of around one and five, is 97% effective. However, coverage in both countries has declined below the 95% threshold needed for herd immunity, allowing the virus to spread among under-vaccinated groups.
In the United States, the current outbreak has not yet lasted a full year, but the health authorities are on alert. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported at least 1,618 measles cases so far in 2025, with the outbreak beginning in West Texas in January. There have been more than 800 cases identified in Texas and New Mexico, while other states, including Arizona, Utah, and South Carolina, have also reported infections. There have been three deaths, including two young girls. Researchers have yet to determine whether the outbreaks in other states are genetically linked to the initial Texas cluster.
Experts warn that Canada’s experience should serve as a wake-up call. Dr. Isaac Bogoch, who is an infectious disease expert at the University of Toronto, told CTV News that the crisis illuminates the necessity to increase the immunization rate and address vaccine misinformation. He cautioned that losing measles elimination status would be a sign of the failure to sustain decades of development in public health against a preventable disease.
At this point, both the United States and Canada now face the sobering reality that declining vaccination rates can quickly erase years of progress. To prevent further outbreaks and restore public confidence, experts stress the need for renewed investment in immunization programs, community engagement, and vaccine education to rebuild trust and reclaim measles-free status.
Reference: Edwards E. Canada is likely to lose its measles elimination status. The U.S. could be next. NBC News. Published October 29, 2025. Accessed October 31, 2025. Canada is likely to lose its measles elimination status. The U.S. could be next
