End of Measles Monitoring Period in Yellowknife

In a recent announcement, the Office of the Chief Public Health Officer (OCPHO) declared the conclusion of the 21-day exposure and monitoring period linked to a confirmed measles case in Yellowknife. The last public exposure was reported on May 2, 2025, and thankfully, no further cases have surfaced.

Rising Measles Cases Across Canada

While the situation in the Northwest Territories appears to be under control, health officials warn that measles poses a significant threat across Canada, with cases continuing to escalate in various provinces. The risk of imported cases remains notably high due to traveler movement.

Essential Vaccine Recommendations for Residents

To safeguard vulnerable populations, especially infants, the OCPHO has issued several key recommendations:

1. Infants aged 6 months to under 12 months traveling to areas with ongoing measles activity, whether domestically or internationally, should receive an early measles vaccine dose.

2. Women considering pregnancy who are under-vaccinated should prioritize getting vaccinated prior to conception, as the live measles vaccine is not recommended during pregnancy.

3. All residents are urged to review their immunization status and ensure vaccines are up to date before embarking on any travel.

Measles: A Serious Health Threat

Measles is an extremely contagious virus that can lead to severe health complications, including pneumonia, brain inflammation (encephalitis), and even death. It can spread through the air and remain infectious in a room for up to two hours after an infected person has departed.

Moreover, there is a rare but grave risk of developing subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), a devastating brain disorder that typically affects children and adolescents years after a measles infection.

Getting Vaccinated: What You Need to Know

Routine measles immunization in the Northwest Territories is available at ages 12 and 18 months. It's essential to remember that infants who receive an early dose before their first birthday will still need two additional doses to achieve full immunization.

For those looking to schedule vaccination appointments or check their immunization records, it’s advised to contact your local public health unit or community health center. Residents vaccinated outside the territory should reach out to their previous healthcare providers for documentation.

Access More Information

For details on measles vaccination pop-up clinics, please visit www.nthssa.ca/pop-up-clinics.

If you have non-urgent health inquiries, need information on measles symptoms, or believe you've been exposed, don’t hesitate to call 811. In emergencies, please dial 911 for immediate medical assistance.