Measles is making headlines again due to new outbreaks around the world, including cases here in Canada. In fact, 2025 has been the worst for measles in Canada since the disease was eradicated in 1998. Well, it’s back.

This highly contagious disease can spread rapidly among unvaccinated people, but the good news is that it’s preventable. In this parent-friendly guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know: the latest measles outbreak data (global and Canadian), how to recognize measles symptoms in children, why the MMR vaccine is so important (and safe), common myths vs facts, and where to get the measles vaccine in Canada (province by province). Let’s ensure our kids stay safe and healthy!

📰 Recent News Articles

• Texas Reports Over 540 Measles Cases Amid Outbreak
  As of April 11, 2025, Texas has reported 541 measles cases, with two child fatalities. ​AP News
• U.S. Measles Cases Surpass 700 with Outbreaks in Six States
  The U.S. has recorded over 700 measles cases in 2025, more than doubling the total from 2024. ​AP News
• New York Issues Measles Travel Advisory for Canada
  Due to rising measles cases, New York has issued a travel advisory for Canada, emphasizing the importance of vaccination. ​Vax-Before-Travel

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Quick Measles FAQ:

Can an adult get measles?

Yes, adults can get measles, and unvaccinated adults are at risk of infection, with complications potentially being more likely than in children. Read more on CDC

When is measles most contagious?

Measles is most contagious from about four days before the rash appears until four days after it erupts. During this time, an infected person can spread the virus through the air when they cough, sneeze, talk, or even just breathe. The virus can also linger in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours. More info on Mayo Clinic

What are 3 signs or symptoms of measles?

• cold-like symptoms, such as a runny nose, sneezing, and a cough.
• sore, red eyes that may be sensitive to light.
• watery eyes.
• swollen eyes.
• a high temperature (fever), which may reach around 40°C (104°F)
• small greyish-white spots in the mouth.
• aches and pains.
• loss of appetite.

Read more on the NHS website

Do I need to quarantine if my child has measles?

Children with measles should be kept away from others for 4 days after their rash appears. For those with a weak immune system, this should continue until they make a full recovery and all symptoms are gone. Read more on KidsHealth.org

Measles Outbreaks: Global Spread and Recent Data (2023–2025)

Measles has seen a global resurgence in recent years. In 2023, an estimated 10.3 million people were infected with measles worldwide – a 20% increase from the previous year (Measles cases rise globally, while the Americas Region regains measles elimination status – PAHO/WHO | Pan American Health Organization). Tragically, over 107,000 people died from measles in 2023, despite the availability of an effective vaccine (2024 WHO-CDC measles report & the State of measles vaccination in lower-income countries). Health agencies like the WHO and CDC report that measles outbreaks are occurring in every region of the world due to gaps in vaccination (Global Measles Outbreaks | Global Measles Vaccination | CDC). The virus is so contagious that if one person has it, 9 out of 10 unvaccinated people close to them will catch it (About Measles | Measles (Rubeola) | CDC).

One driver of the resurgence is the disruption of routine immunization during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to millions of children missing vaccines. In 2023 alone, more than 22 million infants missed their first measles vaccine dose (Measles cases rise globally, while the Americas Region regains measles elimination status – PAHO/WHO | Pan American Health Organization). Public health experts say we need about 95% of the population immunized (with two doses) to stop measles outbreaks (2024 WHO-CDC measles report & the State of measles vaccination in lower-income countries) – a level many communities are struggling to reach.

Canada is not immune to these trends. While measles was eliminated in Canada decades ago, travel-related cases and pockets of lower vaccination have led to sporadic outbreaks. In fact, early 2025 saw a surge in measles cases in Canada: 227 cases were reported in just the first two months of 2025, surpassing the total number of cases in all of 2024 (Canada Faces Rising Measles Cases: Public Health Urges Vaccination Amid Growing Threat ). Canada’s Chief Public Health Officer warned that many of these cases required hospitalization and occurred largely in unvaccinated individuals (Canada Faces Rising Measles Cases: Public Health Urges Vaccination Amid Growing Threat ). A multi-province outbreak that began in late 2024 (in New Brunswick) spread to Ontario, Quebec, Manitoba and Alberta (Measles and Rubella Weekly Monitoring Report — Canada.ca). This shows that as long as measles circulates anywhere in the world, unvaccinated travelers can bring it into Canada, putting others at risk.

On a positive note, the Americas region (including Canada) has so far managed to avoid re-establishing endemic measles. For example, the WHO confirmed that by the end of 2023, the Americas had regained measles elimination status (Measles cases rise globally, while the Americas Region regains measles elimination status – PAHO/WHO | Pan American Health Organization). But to keep it that way, we must maintain high vaccination rates. Public health authorities in Canada urge parents to ensure children get their measles shots on time to prevent further outbreaks (Canada Faces Rising Measles Cases: Public Health Urges Vaccination Amid Growing Threat ). In short – measles may be a plane ride away, but we have the tools to stop it with vigilant vaccination and awareness.

Measles Symptoms in Children of All Ages

Measles often starts like a bad cold and then develops into a distinctive rash illness. After a child is exposed, there is an incubation period (about 7–14 days with no symptoms).

Early symptoms then include:

• High fever (often 39–40 °C or higher; fever may spike over 104 °F) (About Measles | Measles (Rubeola) | CDC)
• Cough (dry cough) (About Measles | Measles (Rubeola) | CDC)
• Runny nose (congestion and sneezing – the classic coryza) (About Measles | Measles (Rubeola) | CDC)
• Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis, often making eyes sensitive to light) (About Measles | Measles (Rubeola) | CDC)
• Fatigue and irritability – kids with measles generally feel quite unwell.

A telltale sign of measles (though not always noticed) is Koplik’s spots – these are tiny white spots inside the mouth (on the inner cheeks) that appear in the first few days of illness ( Measles – United States of America ). They look like grains of salt on a red background and are a helpful clue for doctors.

After the initial fever and cold-like phase, the famous measles rash breaks out. Typically around day 3–5 of illness, a red rash of flat spots appears on the face (starting at the hairline and behind the ears) (Photos of Measles | Measles (Rubeola) | CDC). The rash then spreads downward over the next few days – to the neck, trunk, arms, and legs (Photos of Measles | Measles (Rubeola) | CDC). The red spots may be slightly raised (maculopapular) and can merge together, giving the skin a blotchy red appearance. The rash is often accompanied by a second wave of high fever. It usually lasts about 5–6 days and then fades in the same order it appeared.

(Measles Images | Immunize.org) A child with measles displaying the classic red, blotchy rash covering the face and body. Measles typically causes red eyes and a runny nose along with the rash ( Measles – United States of America ). The rash starts on the face and spreads downward, and is often accompanied by high fever.

How sick do kids get? Measles is more than just a rash – it can be serious, especially for young children (under 5 years) and babies. Common complications include ear infections and diarrhea (About Measles | Measles (Rubeola) | CDC). About 1 in 10 cases develops an ear infection or other complication (Vaccines: Myths and facts | Caring for kids). More severe complications can occur: roughly 1 in 20 children with measles will get pneumonia, a potentially life-threatening lung infection ( Measles – United States of America ). Encephalitis (swelling of the brain) occurs in about 1 in 1,000 cases, which can lead to seizures or brain damage ( Measles – United States of America ). Tragically, measles can be fatal – about 1–2 in 1,000 cases result in death even with the best care (Vaccines: Myths and facts | Caring for kids). Infants, pregnant women, and anyone with a weakened immune system are at highest risk of severe outcomes ( Measles – United States of America ) ( Measles – United States of America ).

It’s important to monitor any child with measles closely. There is no specific antiviral treatment – care involves rest, fluids, and managing fever. Doctors may give vitamin A supplements (especially in developing countries) to help prevent complications ( Measles ) ( Measles ). If you suspect measles (for example, if your child develops a high fever and rash and may have been exposed), call your doctor or public health right away. They can arrange testing and give guidance – and it’s better to call ahead since measles is so contagious (they may want you to avoid sitting in a crowded waiting room). Thankfully, most children with measles will recover in ~2 weeks, but it can be an anxious time for parents. The best way to avoid all this? Prevent measles in the first place through vaccination.

Benefits of Measles Vaccination (MMR): Why the Shot Is a Must

Getting your child vaccinated with the MMR vaccine (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) is one of the best things you can do to protect them. The benefits of the measles vaccine are enormous – for your child, your community, and even globally. Here’s why:

• It’s highly effective: Two doses of MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles; even one dose is ~93% effective (About Measles | Measles (Rubeola) | CDC). This means the vast majority of kids who get both shots will be fully protected for life. Even on the rare chance a vaccinated person gets measles, the illness is usually milder and shorter. The vaccine provides long-lasting immunity against measles (as well as mumps and rubella).
• It saves lives: Measles isn’t a mild illness – so preventing it has a huge impact. Thanks to vaccines, measles cases and deaths have plummeted by over 99% in Canada over the past several decades (Measles | immunizecanada). Worldwide, measles vaccination efforts between 2000 and 2023 prevented an estimated 60 million deaths ( Measles – United States of America ) – an astonishing public health achievement. Before vaccines, measles killed hundreds of Canadians (and millions globally) each year. Now, deaths from measles in Canada are extremely rare. But this success only continues if we keep vaccinating each new generation of kids.
• Herd immunity protects everyone: When enough people (around 95%) are immunized in a community, measles virus struggles to spread (2024 WHO-CDC measles report & the State of measles vaccination in lower-income countries). This herd immunity shields those who can’t be vaccinated – like newborn babies (who don’t get their first MMR until 12 months), or people with certain medical conditions. By vaccinating your child, you’re not just protecting them, you’re also protecting infants and immune-compromised children in your community (Measles Vaccination: Know the Facts) (Measles Vaccination: Know the Facts). On the flip side, if vaccination rates drop, measles can quickly come roaring back. We’ve seen outbreaks occur in areas where MMR uptake fell below the herd immunity threshold (Measles Vaccination: Know the Facts). Every vaccinated child is a vital link in our shield against outbreaks.
• It’s safe and well-tested: The MMR vaccine has been used for about 50–60 years, with an excellent safety record ( Measles ). It contains a weakened form of the virus, just strong enough to train the immune system without causing the disease. The vaccine is free in Canada as part of routine immunizations (usually given at 12 months and 4–6 years of age). Side effects are generally mild and temporary – the most common is a fever or rash in about 5–15% of recipients, which goes away on its own. Serious side effects are extremely rare. Experts repeatedly confirm that the risk of the disease far outweighs any risk from the vaccine (Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Vaccine Safety | Vaccine Safety | CDC).
• Protects against complications: Not only does the MMR shot prevent measles infection, it also prevents the complications that come with measles. For example, you can’t get measles pneumonia or encephalitis if you never catch measles in the first place. Some research even suggests that measles infection can weaken the immune system’s “memory” for a couple of years (a phenomenon called “immune amnesia”), making kids more susceptible to other infections after measles ( Measles – United States of America ). Getting vaccinated avoids this problem entirely.

In short, vaccination is the key to keeping measles in check. It’s one of those “ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” situations. By ensuring your kids get the MMR shots on schedule, you’re giving them robust protection against a potentially very serious illness. It’s no exaggeration to say vaccines are a modern miracle – in Canada, immunization has saved more lives in the last 50 years than any other health intervention (Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine | HealthLink BC). Measles is a prime example of a disease that went from inevitable to almost unseen, thanks to vaccines.

(Worried about the MMR vaccine? In the next section, we tackle some common concerns and myths head-on, with facts.)

Myths vs. Facts: Debunking Common Measles Vaccine Misconceptions

Despite the proven benefits, you might have heard conflicting information about the measles vaccine. Let’s clear the air by addressing a few common myths and the real facts, based on scientific evidence and expert consensus:

• Myth: “Measles isn’t that serious – it’s just a rash in childhood.”
  Fact: Measles can be very serious. It’s not just a harmless rash. Even in healthy children, measles frequently causes high fever, misery, and complications like ear infections or diarrhea. About 1 in 10 cases has some complication, and 1–2 out of every 1,000 children who get measles will die from it (Vaccines: Myths and facts | Caring for kids). Measles can also cause pneumonia or encephalitis (brain swelling) leading to hospitalization. Before vaccines, measles was a leading cause of childhood blindness and death globally. So, measles is absolutely not a mild illness for many – vaccination prevents these severe outcomes.
• Myth: “The MMR vaccine causes autism.”
  Fact: No, it does not. This myth started from a discredited study in the late 1990s that has since been thoroughly debunked. Multiple large studies involving hundreds of thousands of children found no link between the MMR vaccine and autism (Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Vaccine Safety | Vaccine Safety | CDC) (Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Vaccine Safety | Vaccine Safety | CDC). For example, a 2019 study of over 650,000 children in Denmark conclusively found that the MMR shot “does not increase the risk for autism” (Measles Vaccination: Know the Facts). The consensus among experts – including the Canadian Pediatric Society, CDC, WHO, and countless researchers – is that vaccines do not cause autism (Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Vaccine Safety | Vaccine Safety | CDC). Unfortunately, the autism myth has caused some parents to delay or avoid vaccines, which has led to outbreaks. Rest assured: the science is clear on this one.
• Myth: “We don’t need the measles vaccine because the disease is gone here.”
  Fact: While measles was eliminated from Canada and the U.S. in the early 2000s, it still exists in many parts of the world – and it only takes one traveler to bring it back. Measles outbreaks still happen whenever vaccination rates drop or an unvaccinated person travels and is exposed (Measles Vaccination: Know the Facts) (Measles Vaccination: Know the Facts). We’ve seen this recently with measles cases rising in Canada in 2025 due to international travel (Canada Faces Rising Measles Cases: Public Health Urges Vaccination Amid Growing Threat ). If we stop vaccinating, measles will come back. The only reason we don’t see it often is because of high vaccine coverage. Think of it like maintaining a dam – if you stop reinforcing it, eventually the floodwaters (virus) will return. Also, herd immunity matters: relying on others to vaccinate is risky, because if too many people do that, outbreaks ignite (Vaccines: Myths and facts | Caring for kids). To keep measles truly gone, nearly everyone who can get vaccinated needs to do so.
• Myth: “The MMR vaccine isn’t safe – I’ve heard it can cause bad side effects.”
  Fact: The MMR vaccine has an excellent safety profile. Millions of doses are given every year. Most kids have either no side effects or very mild ones (like a fever or slight rash that goes away). Serious adverse reactions are exceedingly rare – far rarer than the complications from measles itself. For instance, a fever-induced seizure occurs in about 1 in 3,000 vaccinated children (Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Vaccine Safety | Vaccine Safety | CDC), which sounds scary but causes no long-term issues and is much less common than seizures from measles infection. Allergic reactions can occur but are on the order of 1 in a million doses. There is no mercury (thimerosal) in MMR, and it does not weaken the immune system – in fact, it strengthens it by teaching it to fight off three viruses. As the CDC plainly states, “getting MMR vaccine is much safer than getting measles, mumps, or rubella” (Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Vaccine Safety | Vaccine Safety | CDC). Every leading health organization stands by the safety of MMR. When you weigh the tiny risk of a vaccine side effect against the very real risks of measles, it’s clear that vaccinating is the smart and safe choice.

By understanding the facts, we can make informed decisions to protect our kids. MMR has been used for decades and is continuously monitored for safety. Don’t let misinformation put your child at risk – if you have concerns, speak with a knowledgeable healthcare provider who can provide evidence-based answers. In the end, the benefits of vaccination far outweigh the risks, and it’s one of the most effective ways to keep our children healthy.

Where to Get the Measles Vaccine (MMR) in Canada

Getting your child the MMR vaccine in Canada is easy and usually free. The measles vaccine is part of the routine publicly funded immunization schedule in every province and territory (Vaccines for children: Childhood vaccination schedule – Canada.ca) (Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine | HealthLink BC). Here’s how you can get your children vaccinated and where to find information for your region:

• Talk to Your Healthcare Provider or Public Health Unit: The Public Health Agency of Canada advises that to find out where to get your child vaccinated, you can contact your doctor/nurse practitioner or your local public health office (called a CLSC in Quebec) (Vaccines for children: Childhood vaccination schedule – Canada.ca). For most families, your family doctor or pediatrician can administer routine vaccines during check-ups. If you don’t have a family doctor, local public health clinics hold immunization sessions.
• Routine Schedule: The first dose of MMR is given at 12 months of age, and the second dose around 4–6 years (often just before kindergarten) (Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine | HealthLink BC). In some provinces, the second dose may be given a bit earlier (18 months or 2 years) – always follow your province’s schedule. If your child missed a dose, public health can provide a catch-up vaccination. Remember, it’s never too late to vaccinate and catch up.
• Province-by-Province Resources: Each province/territory in Canada has resources to help you access vaccines for your child. Below is a breakdown of where parents can get the MMR vaccine in different regions (and how to find local clinics):
  • British Columbia (BC): Vaccinations are provided by public health units across BC, as well as by many physicians and pharmacists. You can contact your regional health authority’s public health unit to book an MMR shot. ImmunizeBC (the provincial immunization website) helps locate clinics. In fact, BC has one of the most comprehensive immunization programs – routine shots for children are offered at public health clinics and participating pharmacies throughout the province (Immunizations – Province of British Columbia). You can also call 8-1-1 in BC for HealthLink BC to find clinic information.
  • Alberta: In Alberta, Alberta Health Services (AHS) delivers childhood immunizations. MMR vaccines are given for free at local public health centres/community health clinics. Parents can call their local public health office to schedule an appointment for their child’s shots (or book through the provincial online system if available). Many community health centres hold regular immunization clinics for babies and children. You can find more info on the Immunize Alberta website or through MyHealth Alberta. (Pharmacies in Alberta can also give vaccines to older children and teens.)
  • Prairie Provinces (Saskatchewan and Manitoba): These provinces similarly provide vaccines via public health. Saskatchewan Public Health runs immunization programs – local public health nurses administer routine vaccines (MMR included) at community clinics or public health offices. Manitoba also offers routine childhood vaccines free of charge through public health offices and some doctor’s clinics. For example, in Winnipeg and other regions, you can book immunizations with public health nurses. Check your regional health authority’s website for clinic schedules, or talk to your doctor. (Both SK and MB also have school-based immunization programs for certain age groups, but MMR is usually done in early childhood at clinics.)
  • Ontario: In Ontario, the MMR vaccine is part of the publicly funded schedule and is generally given by your family doctor or pediatrician during well-child visits. Local Public Health Units also offer immunization clinics, especially for families without a regular doctor or those needing catch-up doses. You can find information on Ontario’s routine vaccine schedule and local public health unit clinics on the Ontario Ministry of Health website (Provincial and Territorial Immunization Information – Canada.ca). Ontario schools require proof of measles vaccination (or a valid exemption) for attendance, so keeping up to date is important. If you’re unsure where to go, contact your local Public Health Unit – they can direct you to clinics or provide the vaccine themselves.
  • Quebec: In Quebec, routine immunizations (including MMR) are offered through local CLSCs (Centres locaux de services communautaires, which are community health clinics) as well as by doctors. Parents typically book infant vaccines at their nearest CLSC. The MMR vaccine is free in Quebec and given at 12 months and 18 months (as MMRV) as per the provincial schedule. To get your child vaccinated, simply call your CLSC or doctor’s office. Quebec’s health ministry website has a locator for finding your local CLSC (Vaccines for children: Childhood vaccination schedule – Canada.ca). Pharmacists in Quebec can also administer vaccines to children ages 5 and up, which provides another convenient option for older kids and teens.
  • Atlantic Canada (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland & Labrador): Across the Atlantic provinces, Public Health offices and family doctors collaborate to provide childhood immunizations. For example, Nova Scotia Health holds public health immunization clinics at local offices and community locations across the province (Public Health Immunization Clinics | Nova Scotia Health). These clinics ensure even those without a family doctor can get vaccines. Routine shots (like MMR) are also offered by family practice doctors and even some community pharmacies in NS (Public Health Immunization Clinics | Nova Scotia Health). In New Brunswick, local Public Health offices schedule vaccinations for infants and school-aged children (the provincial health website or 8-1-1 can connect you to clinics). PEI provides vaccines through public health nursing and some family doctors – the PEI government site lists public health immunization clinics and contact info. Newfoundland & Labrador similarly uses public health nurses (often at community health clinics) to immunize children on schedule. In all Atlantic provinces, you can call the provincial health line or visit the government health website to find out where to book an MMR vaccine for your child. It’s usually free and straightforward.
  • Territories (Yukon, Northwest Territories, Nunavut): In the territories, community health centres are the main point of contact for vaccinations. Nurses travel to smaller communities on schedule to vaccinate children. In Yukon, the Health and Social Services department provides routine immunizations through health centres (Yukon’s schedule includes MMR at 12 months and 18 months). NWT public health clinics (often in health centres or hospitals for bigger towns) offer vaccines – contact your local health centre in NWT to book. Nunavut also provides all routine vaccines through local health centres in each hamlet/community. The key in the North is to work with the community nurses and follow the schedule provided to you when your baby is born. Territorial websites and info lines can guide you to the nearest clinic (and because of remote locations, they often ensure you get reminders for when vaccines are due).

Pro Tip: Keep an immunization record for your child and bring it to appointments (Vaccines for children: Childhood vaccination schedule – Canada.ca). In many provinces, there are now electronic vaccine registries or apps (for example, CANImmunize app) where you can track your child’s shots. This makes it easier to know you’re on schedule. If you’re ever unsure if your child is up to date, call your doctor or local public health – they can review the records and arrange any catch-ups. Remember that all routine childhood vaccines, including MMR, are provided free of charge in every province/territory (Vaccines for children: Childhood vaccination schedule – Canada.ca) (Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine | HealthLink BC).

Finally, if you plan to travel internationally with an infant who is 6–11 months old, talk to your healthcare provider – babies that young normally aren’t scheduled for MMR yet, but doctors may recommend an early dose before travel to high-risk areas (Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine | HealthLink BC). This extra dose can give some protection to infants in special situations (they would still need the regular doses later).

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Bottom Line: Measles is a vaccine-preventable disease, and as parents, we have the power to protect our kids. With outbreaks occurring globally and even here in Canada, staying informed and keeping up with MMR vaccinations is critical. By vaccinating on time, recognizing symptoms, and dispelling myths, we can keep our families and communities safe from measles. Consider this guide a friendly reminder from a health-savvy friend: check your child’s immunization record, book that shot if it’s due, and share this info with other parents who might have questions. Together, we can ensure that measles remains a rarity in Canada – and that our children grow up healthy, happy, and measles-free!

Sources:

• World Health Organization (WHO) and CDC – Measles global surveillance updates (Measles cases rise globally, while the Americas Region regains measles elimination status – PAHO/WHO | Pan American Health Organization) (2024 WHO-CDC measles report & the State of measles vaccination in lower-income countries)
• Public Health Agency of Canada – Measles outbreak news and immunization resources (Canada Faces Rising Measles Cases: Public Health Urges Vaccination Amid Growing Threat ) (Measles and Rubella Weekly Monitoring Report — Canada.ca)
• CDC – Measles fact sheets on symptoms, complications, and vaccine effectiveness (About Measles | Measles (Rubeola) | CDC) ( Measles – United States of America )
• Canadian Paediatric Society – Parent info on vaccine myths vs facts (Vaccines: Myths and facts | Caring for kids) (Vaccines: Myths and facts | Caring for kids)
• Immunize Canada – Measles and MMR vaccine information (immunization programs in Canada) (Measles | immunizecanada) (Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine | HealthLink BC)