Manitoba becomes ground zero in Canada's measles crisis; Symptoms and treatment

A highly contagious and potentially deadly disease, thought to be nearly eliminated from Canada, has returned with alarming speed. Manitoba is under threat as it faces a surge in measles cases, marking the province’s most substantial outbreak in decades.

Health officials have confirmed 60 cases as of now, with four additional probable cases under investigation. The outbreak, which began with the first reported case in February, has seen a rapid escalation, with 42 new cases identified in May alone.

Also Read: Measles outbreak in Alberta


Experts warn that the actual number of infections may be higher due to delays between infection and laboratory confirmation.

Epidemiologist Cynthia Carr emphasized the contagious nature of measles, stating, “This virus is very good at spreading. As a reminder, it can stay in the air two hours after the person infected with measles has been in the room and left.”

Response from the authorities

Manitoba has expanded eligibility for the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine in response to the escalating situation.

Infants aged six months to under 12 months residing in the Southern Health-Santé Sud and Interlake Eastern Regional Health Authority regions, or those who travel regularly to and have close contact with residents of these areas, are eligible for an additional dose of the MMR vaccine.

Dr. Peter Hotez, a pediatrician and molecular virology professor at Baylor College of Medicine, highlighted the importance of vaccination in curbing the outbreak. “The only way to stop the flow is to bolster herd immunity and get 90-95 per cent vaccination rates. The only way you’re going to slow this down is by a catch-up measles vaccination campaign,” he said.

Also Read: US records over 800 confirmed cases of measles in 2025

Rise in measles cases across Canada

According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, there have been 1,069 measles cases reported nationwide in 2025, with 885 cases linked to a multijurisdictional outbreak that began in New Brunswick in October 2024 and has since spread to Ontario, Alberta, Manitoba, and Quebec.

Public health officials continue to monitor the situation closely and urge residents to ensure their MMR vaccinations are up to date, as it remains the most effective tool in preventing the spread of measles.

What is Measles?

Measles is not just highly transmissible but also potentially severe. The complications can include ear infections, pneumonia, and in severe cases, encephalitis, which can lead to permanent brain damage or even death.

How to Stay Safe and What to Do if You're Exposed

Get vaccinated with the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine, which is highly effective in preventing infection. If exposed, monitor for symptoms like fever, rash, and white spots in the mouth, and contact a healthcare provider immediately—especially if you're unvaccinated, pregnant, or immunocompromised. Early medical care can reduce complications.