Will Canada Lose Its Measles-Free Status

According to Reuters, the Region of the Americas is at risk of losing its measles-free status this year. Data published by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) indicates that the highly infectious disease continues to spread in Canada, Mexico, and to a lesser extent, the United States.

To be considered measles-free, a country where an outbreak occurs must return to zero cases within 12 months, says the PAHO.

Reuters reported on October 6, 2025, that the deadline for Canada expires at the end of October, while the United States has until January and Mexico until February 2026 to reach this goal.

According to Health Canada, measles was eliminated in Canada in 1998, with an average of 91 cases reported annually.

Additionally, the current situation has continued to improve during the fall season.

In 2025, a total of 5,024 measles cases were reported by 10 jurisdictions: Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, and Saskatchewan.

However, during week #39 (September 21 to 27, 2025), only 18 new measles cases were reported, with the Province of Alberta continuing to lead.

Alberta Health Services stated on October 2, 2025, that there is ongoing transmission of measles across Alberta. Recent cases have been reported across all Zones, particularly in Southern and parts of Northern Alberta.

A standing measles exposure advisory has been issued for the South Zone and the following locations in the North Zone: The Hamlet of La Crete, St. Theresa General Hospital in Fort Vermilion, and Northwest Health Center in High Level, effective until further notice. 

All individuals living, working, attending school in, or traveling to these areas are advised to be aware of the significant current risk for measles disease.

The good news is that there were 0 cases of measles in Newfoundland and Labrador this year.

While the PAHO is focused on Canada, both Mexico and the USA are making strides in reducing the number of measles cases by the end of 2025. All three countries offer the MMR vaccine at local pharmacies.

As of October 7, 2025, the U.S. CDC has not implemented travel restrictions for Canada or Mexico, but highly recommends vaccination before traveling abroad.