A Growing Threat: Measles Returns to Canada

As Canada grapples with a resurgence of infectious diseases, a stark warning rings out: measles, once declared eliminated, is making a dangerous comeback. This alarming increase in cases highlights the consequences of neglectful public health policies during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Winter Quademic: A Perfect Storm

This past winter saw Canada battered by a ‘quademic’—a convergence of RSV, influenza, COVID-19, and norovirus—that strained an already overwhelmed healthcare system. With over 20,000 flu hospitalizations and nearly 300 fatalities, experts blame waning immunity from fall vaccinations and the absence of preventive measures like masking.

Measles Cases Skyrocket

With a record 731 measles cases reported in just the first three months of 2025, Ontario is at the center of this outbreak, contributing 656 cases. The vast majority of those affected are unvaccinated, raising alarm that adults over 30, who may have received only one vaccine dose, could also be vulnerable. This situation is compounded by the virus’s extraordinary ability to spread, even reaching remote indigenous communities.

Political Failures and Public Health Consequences

The current health crisis can be traced back to a profound lack of accountability among political leaders, particularly under Justin Trudeau's federal Liberal government. While the pandemic brought temporary lockdowns, the focus quickly shifted to financial bailouts, neglecting public health in favor of corporate interests.

Public Health Under Siege

As Ontario’s provincial government attempts to downplay the outbreak, concerns are growing. Cases have already reached cities like Toronto, with public health officials warning of potential exposures at crowded venues. The situation is made worse by the decline in vaccination rates; MMR vaccine uptake has plummeted to just 82.5% since 2019.

A Call to Action: Vaccine Hesitancy

Public apprehension surrounding vaccines is on the rise, with nearly 20% of Canadians expressing doubts about COVID booster safety. Alarmingly, many adults are hesitant to get vaccinated against other diseases, illustrating the long-lasting impact of the pandemic and the misguided beliefs perpetuated by anti-vaccine movements.

Time for a Comprehensive Response

To combat these infectious diseases effectively, experts are urging for the reintroduction of public health measures, strengthened vaccination programs, and educational campaigns. As cases like measles continue to escalate, Canadian authorities must prioritize public health or risk further outbreaks.

Conclusion: The Urgency of Preventive Action

The alarming resurgence of measles is more than just a health issue; it’s a wake-up call for Canada. As we face ongoing public health challenges, it’s imperative that governments take decisive action to safeguard the well-being of all Canadians. Without a unified effort to restore trust in public health and the importance of vaccinations, we may be heading for even more devastating outbreaks.