Measles activity in Canada: January - June 2014

Since the beginning of 2014 to May 10, 103 cases of measles have been reported to the Public Health Agency of Canada from five provinces: British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario. Three factors contribute to this. First, Canadians travel more than they used to, increasing the risk in those who are not immunized of importing the disease into Canada. Second, there has been an increase in measles in countries that have high population exchange with Canada, including France (2011), the Netherlands (2013) and, most recently, the Philippines (2014). Finally, there is suboptimal immunization coverage in some areas across Canada. This year there have been 21 importations to May 10th, yet, despite how highly contagious measles is, only eight led to transmission within Canada. Strengthening immunization programs, maintaining heightened vigilance and continuing to achieve rapid containment of imported infections are essential for sustaining measles elimination.