The Decibel Measles is now spreading across Canada. What’s being done?
May 12, 2025
André Picard, a health columnist for The Globe and Mail, discusses the alarming resurgence of measles in Canada, highlighting a spike in cases from 370 to 1,440 in Ontario. He points to declining vaccination rates, with only about 70% of children under 7 fully vaccinated. Picard critiques the public health response and emphasizes the strain on health systems. He also tackles vaccine hesitancy and misinformation, urging for better communication to improve community vaccination efforts and protect public health.
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Domestic Spread Ends Elimination
- Measles outbreaks now show domestic spread, a big shift from usually isolated imported cases.
- Canada is about to lose its measles elimination status due to these community transmissions.
Ontario Outbreak Worse Than U.S.
- Ontario’s measles outbreak is far worse per capita than the U.S. currently.
- Unlike the U.S., Canada appears to lack strong public health efforts to stop the spread.
Mostly Unvaccinated Kids Infected
- Measles primarily infects unvaccinated children, as immunity is common in older people.
- Those born before 1970 likely had measles and are immune.