Canada Just Lost Its Measles-Free Status. The U.S. Could Soon Follow
11 days ago
- #measles
- #public health
- #vaccination
- Canada has lost its measles-free status due to ongoing transmission.
- The Americas region is no longer measles-free as a result.
- The Americas was first declared measles-free in 2016 after a 22-year vaccination campaign.
- PAHO director Jarbas Barbosa stated the setback is reversible.
- Canada has confirmed 5,162 measles cases this year.
- Canada is working to improve vaccination coverage and surveillance to regain elimination status.
- Active measles outbreaks are also occurring in Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Mexico, Paraguay, and the U.S.
- The U.S. is at risk of losing its measles-free status due to ongoing outbreaks.
- The Americas previously lost and regained measles-free status in 2018-2019 and 2024.