Measles surveillance in Canada: Trends for 2014

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Infectious Disease Surveillance

Background:

• Canada achieved measles elimination status in 1998.
• Ongoing surveillance is crucial for verifying continued elimination.
• The Public Health Agency of Canada reports to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze measles activity in Canada during 2014.
• To support the verification of Canada's sustained measles elimination status.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from the Canadian Measles and Rubella Surveillance System and pilot project.
• Assessed case demographics, immunization status, and hospitalization rates.
• Conducted genotypic and phylogenetic analyses of measles cases and outbreaks.

Main Results:

• Reported 418 measles cases with an incidence rate of 11.8 per 1,000,000 population.
• Highest incidence observed in the 5-14 year age group; most cases were unvaccinated.
• Eighteen outbreaks occurred, including one in a non-immunizing religious community; 5% of cases were hospitalized.

Conclusions:

• Canada continues to meet PAHO's criteria for measles elimination verification.
• Despite measles activity, evidence supports the maintenance of elimination status.
• Robust surveillance systems are vital for public health protection.