Measles Outbreak in Canada: Largest Since 1998, Over 90% Unimmunized or Unknown

Strategic Insights -

Public health officials in Manitoba are warning of a large measles outbreak in Canada, the largest since 1998, with over 90% of cases being unimmunized or having an unknown vaccination status. The outbreak has resulted in hospitalizations for 9% of cases. Manitoba's health department is encouraging residents to review their immunization status against measles during National Immunization Awareness Week, April 21 to 30.

Key Takeaways:

  • The current measles outbreak in Canada is the largest since 1998, with over 90% of cases being unimmunized or having an unknown vaccination status.
  • 9% of cases have been hospitalized, emphasizing the severity of the outbreak.
  • Manitobans born in 1985 and later can likely access their immunization records in the provincial registry, while those born between 1970 and 1984 may need to confirm their immunization status with their healthcare provider.
  • Individuals born before 1970 are generally considered immune to measles due to the frequent circulation of the virus at that time.
  • Vaccines against measles save millions of lives each year by preventing illnesses like measles.
  • Before vaccinations were available, approximately 10,000 to 90,000 people living in Canada were infected with measles every year.
  • Vaccines against measles and other illnesses are available throughout Manitoba for individuals of all ages through public health clinics and healthcare providers.

Statistics:

  • Over 90% of measles cases in Canada are unimmunized or have an unknown vaccination status.
  • 9% of measles cases have resulted in hospitalizations.
  • Approximately 10,000 to 90,000 people living in Canada were infected with measles every year before vaccinations were available.

Sources:

  • Government of Manitoba news release, title not specified (publicly avaiable news release dated April [no date]).