Measles cases in Canada are increasing, Canada’s chief public health officer warns

She says measles is highly contagious and is urging parents and caregivers to ensure kids in their care have been vaccinated.

Tam says the majority of people who have been infected with measles were unvaccinated and most of them were children.

She says although some people have been infected while travelling internationally, others have caught measles in Canada.

Measles infections have been reported in Ontario, Quebec, Saskatchewan and British Columbia.

“Measles is more than a rash. Infection can lead to rare, but severe complications, including deafness and brain injury caused by inflammation of the brain, and can even be fatal,” Tam said in the statement issued Wednesday.

“No one should have to experience serious illness from a vaccine-preventable disease like measles,” she said.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 27, 2024.

Canadian Press health coverage receives support through a partnership with the Canadian Medical Association. CP is solely responsible for this content.

Nicole Ireland, The Canadian Press

by Canadian Press

Measles cases in Canada are increasing, Canada’s chief public health officer warns

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