Measles outbreak that contributed to Canada losing elimination status highlights risks from persistent immunity gaps
A study published in The BMJ reveals that Canada's loss of measles-free status in 2025 was driven by outbreaks in historically undervaccinated communities. The findings emphasize the need for culturally tailored public health engagement to bridge immunity gaps.
Why it matters
This highlights the fragility of disease elimination status and the ongoing public health challenge of maintaining high vaccination coverage in specific social networks.
edited by Sadie Harley , reviewed by Andrew Zinin
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:
Add to Preferred Sources Credit: CP Khanal from Pexels The outbreak that contributed to Canada losing its measles elimination status in November 2025 was concentrated in historically undervaccinated communities with close social networks across Canada, the U.S., Mexico and beyond, creating opportunities for cross-border transmission, concludes a study published by The BMJ .
The researchers say the findings highlight the ongoing risk of measles resurgence in countries that have previously successfully controlled the disease, and underscore the importance of culturally tailored community engagement to build trust and confidence in vaccination and prevent future outbreaks.
Also covering this story
One other newsroom covered this event. We read that version too.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in