Measles, one of the most contagious diseases known in human history, is rampaging through Canada. This year to date, Canada has seen 346 cases. The measles outbreak started on October 18, 2024 with a travel related case popping up in New Brunswick.
Though New Brunswick “declared their outbreak over on January 7, 2025,” according to a Public Health Ontario (PHO) official, the virus had already spread to Ontario. “Ontario continues to experience measles transmission, which has also led to cases of measles in Manitoba,” PHO said.
Reports show that most of the cases were seen in unvaccinated (77 per cent) or under-vaccinated* (5 per cent) children. It can cause serious illness and complications such as pneumonia, deafness, brain inflammation, and even death in severe cases.
*Under-vaccinated: Only received one dose of the vaccine and did not develop immunity.
We understand the topic of vaccination can be a charged debate. THI will not tell you what choices to make, but we urge you to consider the data and to make informed decisions on how your actions can impact those you care about.
Though measles used to be commonplace until the mid 1900s, rates dropped as the first measles vaccine was approved for public use in 1963. “Widespread childhood vaccination against measles has drastically reduced disease rates worldwide. WHO now recommends vaccination at nine months for babies in areas where measles is common, and at 12–15 months for those in other areas,” WHO reports.
Rates of infection had been consistently dropping since 1970, and Canada had eradicated this disease by 1998. But waning vaccination rates have brought about a spike in infections globally, impacting rates of infection in Canada.
As Ontario is seeing the bulk of infections, it can provide us with some insight into who is being affected. “Based on measles activity and trends, we are seeing cases in Ontario occurring mostly among unvaccinated persons under 20 years of age,” Public Health Ontario said.
How Contagious is Measles?
Community immunity is essential to preventing widespread outbreaks. Because measles is so incredibly contagious, WHO says that areas require “at least 95 per cent immunity among the population to prevent epidemics.”
While not far off, Canada’s community immunity rate in 2022 was just shy of this marker at 90 per cent.
The Public Health Agency of Canada “strongly [urges] all Canadians to ensure they are vaccinated against measles,” especially when travelling. Do your research before jet setting; it’s important to know if you are travelling to an area with a high rate of infection.
Public Health reports that people who do not have immunity from either a vaccine or previous infection have a 90 per cent chance of becoming infected if they come into contact with the virus.
Symptoms
Public Health Ontario lists symptoms of measles as:
- Fever
- A red blotchy rash
- Red watery eyes
- Cough
- Small white spot inside cheeks
It typically takes 7-14 days after exposure to start developing symptoms. Call your doctor immediately if you suspect you or your child has been exposed to the virus.
To test for the virus, a doctor will ask for a urine sample, perform a throat and nasal swab, and draw blood for testing.
There is no specific cure or treatment for measles. WHO recommends rest, treat fever, drink lots of water, and take two doses of vitamin A supplements 24 hours apart. This should help reduce your risk of complications, which occur in about 10 per cent of cases.
Children, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals are most at risk of developing serious complications after exposure to measles.
Spread
The virus can be spread by touching an infected person and then touching your eyes, mouth, or nose. It’s also spread through droplets in the air after coughing or sneezing. Measles can live on surfaces and in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves.
A single case of measles can cause up to 18 other infections in unvaccinated populations. According to the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases, measles is “much more” contagious than COVID-19.
When asked how to stop the spread, aside from vaccines which remained the most important step, Public Health Ontario said, “If someone has potentially been exposed to someone with measles or is experiencing symptoms of measles, they should stay at home, and call their health care provider or local public health unit right away. Before seeking medical attention, they should be sure to contact their health care provider or the healthcare facility prior to arrival so that the appropriate precautions can be taken to prevent the spread of measles. They should especially keep away from people who are most susceptible to severe outcomes following infection, including infants, immunocompromised persons, and pregnant individuals.”
With diseases this contagious, the best thing that you can do for your health is to stay informed and think critically. Children are most at risk and cannot advocate for themselves, so it’s crucial to consider your potential impact. Keep on top of local news and be aware of possible exposure.
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