Health authorities have issued a measles alert urging countries including Canada to intensify prevention and response efforts, as outbreaks continue to spread in several regions and vaccination gaps raise public health concerns.
Officials warned that declining immunisation rates, pandemic-related disruptions, and increased international travel have created conditions for measles to resurge, even in countries that had previously eliminated the disease. Canada has reported a rise in cases in recent months, prompting calls for stronger surveillance, faster contact tracing, and improved vaccine coverage.
Public health experts stressed that measles is highly contagious and can lead to serious complications, particularly in young children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems. They warned that even small drops in vaccination rates can quickly lead to outbreaks.
The alert calls on governments to ensure routine immunisation programs are fully funded and accessible, improve public awareness to counter misinformation, and strengthen outbreak preparedness at borders and within communities. Health agencies also urged countries to close immunity gaps by offering catch-up vaccinations.
In Canada, provincial health authorities are being encouraged to work closely with schools, healthcare providers, and community groups to identify unvaccinated individuals and prevent further spread. Officials said timely vaccination remains the most effective protection against measles.
Global health organisations warned that without coordinated action, outbreaks could worsen and place additional strain on healthcare systems already dealing with seasonal illnesses.
The alert underscores the need for sustained investment in vaccination programs, with experts emphasizing that preventing measles outbreaks is far less costly than responding once the virus spreads.