Health Check Canada loses measles elimination status
Nov 12, 2025
Vanessa Apea, a consultant in genitourinary health with experience at Barts Health NHS Trust, joins to explore critical health topics. She discusses the alarming rise of measles cases in Canada and its repercussions for public health across the Americas. The conversation shifts to fascinating research on how speaking multiple languages could slow cognitive aging, tying multilingualism to increased cognitive reserve. Additionally, Vanessa weighs in on France's innovative proposal for doctors to recommend working from home as a health strategy.
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Canada Triggered Measles Status Loss
- Canada's measles surge pushed the entire Americas to lose measles-free status due to sustained transmission over the year.
- Low vaccination coverage, lack of a national registry and access gaps underpinned the outbreak, despite Canada being a high-income country.
95% Coverage Threshold Matters
- Measles requires at least 95% vaccination coverage to prevent outbreaks; many countries in the Americas are nearer 70%.
- This coverage shortfall explains rising cases beyond isolated incidents.
Steps To Regain Elimination Status
- Expand vaccination access, strengthen surveillance and improve public information to regain elimination status.
- Establish dedicated resources and accountability to increase coverage and reporting.