As we step into 2025, Dr. Theresa Tam, Canada's Chief Public Health Officer, has raised a red flag about two alarming health threats: the H5N1 bird flu and a resurgence of measles, both posing significant risks to the population's health.

H5N1 Bird Flu Threat

H5N1, a notorious strain of bird flu primarily spread by wild birds, has already made its mark with the first reported human case in Canada this year. This case involved a teenager from British Columbia who was hospitalized in November, although health officials have yet to determine how the infection occurred. The case sparked concern due to its severity, and thankfully, no further human infections have been reported, indicating that human-to-human transmission has not yet occurred.

However, the situation is precarious; globally, H5N1 cases among humans have spiked, particularly in the United States, where at least 65 confirmed cases were reported in 2024, primarily among farm workers. Tam stressed the importance of enhancing community awareness and preventative measures, especially for those with backyard birds that could come into contact with wild birds, the primary carriers of the virus. Protective equipment and stringent biosecurity protocols are essential to mitigate the risks posed by this deadly virus.

Resurgence of Measles

In addition to the threat of bird flu, Dr. Tam is sounding the alarm over the rise of vaccine-preventable diseases like measles, which Canada had declared eliminated as of 1998. Alarmingly, nearly 170 measles cases were documented in the country throughout 2024, a sharp increase from just 59 the previous year. Many cases are linked to a large outbreak in New Brunswick that has spread to Ontario. The majority of affected individuals were unvaccinated, highlighting a worrying trend of vaccine hesitancy and declining immunization rates, potentially spurred by disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A tragic reminder of measles' dangers was seen this year when a child under five tragically died in Ontario—a stark indication of the serious threats posed by this highly contagious virus to unvaccinated populations. With the infectious nature of measles, unvaccinated individuals are at severe risk, and Dr. Tam encourages parents to prioritize vaccinations to safeguard their children against such preventable illnesses.

Emerging Concerns: Pertussis

Moreover, pertussis, or whooping cough, is also resurfacing as a significant concern. This disease can severely impact young children, and health officials are linking the spike in cases to sustained drops in vaccine coverage since the pandemic.

Continued Vigilance Against COVID-19

As for COVID-19, while hospitals are currently not overwhelmed by the virus as seen in previous winters, Tam notes it continues to evolve, underscoring the importance of booster vaccinations, hand hygiene, and other protective measures to curb potential outbreaks.

Conclusion: The Importance of Vaccination

With both new and re-emerging health threats looming, Dr. Tam emphasizes the critical need for public education, community engagement, and adherence to vaccination schedules. Canada is at a crossroads, and the actions taken in the coming months will be key to preventing further health crises in the population.

Stay informed and protect yourself—vaccination is more important than ever!