Canada has lost its status as a measles-free country, according to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), after the measles outbreak continued for 12 months. This has led to the loss of status for the entire region of the Americas, although other countries in the area remain considered disease-free. The outbreak, which began in October last year, has been attributed to the low number of vaccinations. PAHO emphasized the need for 95% of the population to be vaccinated to stop the spread of the virus.
Canada reported over 5,000 cases in 2025, mostly in Ontario and Alberta, where vaccination rates are below the necessary threshold. Experts have pointed to lack of access to doctors and misinformation as contributing factors to the population's hesitancy regarding vaccination. Canada can regain its status as a measles-free country if it manages to limit the outbreak for 12 months.