Measles Cases on the Rise in B.C. Amidst Low Vaccination Levels

Strategic Insights -

The B.C. Centre for Disease Control is reporting a significant increase in measles cases, with 30 reported cases so far this year, predominantly in Northern B.C. The resurgence of measles cases is primarily attributed to low vaccination levels in Canada, with a total of 3,170 cases reported in 2025. The majority of cases are concentrated in Ontario and Alberta. Measles was declared eradicated in Canada in 1998, with sporadic cases occurring since, averaging 91 cases per year from 1998 to 2024.

Key Takeaways:

  • Measles cases in B.C. have risen to 30 so far this year, with 18 cases reported in Northern B.C.
  • Fraser Health has reported four cases, and Vancouver Coastal Health has eight cases.
  • One case is believed to have originated out of province but was diagnosed in B.C.
  • Measles vaccination levels are low in Canada, contributing to the rise in cases.
  • The majority of cases (91%) are concentrated in Ontario and Alberta.
  • Measles was eradicated in Canada in 1998 but has made a resurgence, with an average of 91 cases per year from 1998 to 2024.
  • Symptoms of measles include a rash, fever, cough, runny nose, and can lead to pneumonia and brain swelling in severe cases.
  • One in ten infected individuals require hospitalization, and there has been one measles-related death this year.
  • The B.C. Centre for Disease Control has issued exposure notifications for specific locations, including the Sparwood McDonald's and the Fort St. John Hospital emergency room waiting area.
  • People who need to visit a hospital or health-care provider due to a suspected measles case must contact providers first to take precautions against spread.

Statistics:

  • 30 measles cases reported so far this year in B.C.
  • 3,170 measles cases reported in Canada in 2025.
  • 91 cases per year averaged from 1998 to 2024.
  • 18 cases reported in Northern B.C.
  • 4 cases reported in Fraser Health.
  • 8 cases reported in Vancouver Coastal Health.
  • 1 case believed to have originated out of province.
  • 91% of measles cases concentrated in Ontario and Alberta.
  • 1 in 10 infected individuals require hospitalization.

Sources:

  • B.C. Centre for Disease Control
  • Federal government statistics
  • Abbotsford News (2025)