OTTAWA, ON, Oct. 19, 2026 /CNW/ -- In partnership with provincial and territorial public health officials, the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) announced today that the multi-jurisdictional measles outbreak is over as more than two months have passed since the last case linked to the outbreak was reported.
The outbreak began in October 2024 and resulted in more than 6,400 cases across 10 provinces and territories. Most people who became ill had not been vaccinated against measles. Because the outbreak strain continued to spread for more than 12 months, Canada lost its global measles elimination status in late 2025.
Responding to the outbreak required close cooperation across federal, provincial, territorial, and local public health systems. Preventing and controlling vaccine-preventable diseases is a shared responsibility, and all levels of government responsible for public health worked together to manage the outbreak.
Throughout the outbreak, provinces and territories led public health measures to limit the spread of measles, with support from PHAC. These measures included identifying cases and contacts, improving disease monitoring and reporting, conducting laboratory testing, working with communities, and increasing access to vaccination. PHAC provided national coordination, technical advice, disease surveillance, and laboratory expertise. The Government of Canada also supported the response through vaccine regulation and procurement as well as emergency preparedness activities. Together, these efforts supported a coordinated response, enabled timely decision-making, and helped reduce the risk of further transmission.
Although this outbreak has ended, measles continues to spread in many parts of the world and travel-related cases are expected to continue occurring in Canada.
PHAC will continue to work closely with provinces and territories, health care providers, domestic and international partners, and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) to monitor measles activity and support Canada's preparedness and response efforts.
Quotes
"I want to recognize the dedication and teamwork of public health professionals across Canada who helped bring this outbreak to an end. Their efforts, alongside the commitment of provinces, territories and communities, helped reduce the spread of measles. We continue to see cases around the world so while the outbreak is over, our work to increase vaccination rates and protect the health of Canadians continues. "
The Honourable Marjorie Michel
Minister of Health
"The end of this significant measles outbreak reflects the collective efforts of public health authorities, health care providers, community organizations, and families across Canada. While this milestone is encouraging, measles continues to circulate globally, and we can expect to see further travel-related cases here at home. Vaccination remains our best defence against measles, and keeping routine vaccinations up to date is essential to preventing future outbreaks and protecting our communities."
Dr. Joss Reimer
Canada's Chief Public Health Officer
Quick Facts
- Although the end of this multi-jurisdictional outbreak is an important milestone, it does not automatically restore Canada's measles elimination status. This can happen once transmission of the measles strain associated with the outbreak has been interrupted for at least 12 consecutive months.
- Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. Although most people recover, measles can cause serious complications, especially in infants, young children, pregnant people, and those with weakened immune systems.
- Two doses of a measles-containing vaccine provide strong protection against infection. Canadians should check with their healthcare provider or local public health unit to verify that their measles vaccinations are up to date.
Related Links
- Measles: Symptoms and Treatment
- Measles & Rubella Monitoring Report
- Vaccines and Immunization
- Travel Health Notices
SOURCE Health Canada (HC)
Contacts: Alexandre Bergeron, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Health, [email protected]; Media Relations, Public Health Agency of Canada, 613-957-2983, [email protected]; Public inquiries: 1-844-280-5020
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