The measles outbreaks in Canada and Mexico have reached alarming levels, with both countries experiencing their largest outbreaks in decades. According to Dr. Kieran Moore, Chief Medical Officer of Health of the Canadian province Ontario, an infant who was born prematurely with a measles infection died recently. The infant contracted the virus before birth from their mother, who had not received the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Moore stated, “While measles may have been a contributing factor in both the premature birth and death, the infant also faced other serious medical complications unrelated to the virus.”
The World Health Organization has warned that the overall risk of measles in the Americas Region is considered high, primarily due to low vaccination rates. Mexico has reported at least 1,520 measles cases as of late May, while Canada has seen a staggering 2,755 cases so far this year, surpassing the total number of cases reported in the previous 27 years combined. In the US, there have been at least 1,168 measles cases reported this year, with nearly 80% associated with an outbreak centered in West Texas that has spread to New Mexico, Oklahoma, and possibly Canada.
The outbreaks in Canada, Mexico, and the US have been linked to Mennonite communities with historically low vaccination rates. However, experts from the Pan American Health Organization note that the majority of cases are outside these communities and are sustained in the general population. Dr. Alvaro Whittembury, Regional Adviser for the Comprehensive Immunization Special Program, emphasized the importance of vaccination, particularly for pregnant women and those traveling internationally.
Whittembury explained that the outbreak in Mexico started in Chihuahua, at the heart of Mennonite communities close to Texas and other Mennonite communities in Canada. He added, “It’s essential to show that although at first the outbreak starts in Mennonite communities… the vast majority of cases are outside of these communities, and they are sustained in the general population.”
In response to the outbreaks, health officials are urging everyone, especially those who may become pregnant, to ensure they have received two doses of the MMR vaccine. Dr. Moore stressed, “Anyone who is unvaccinated is at risk and I urge everyone, but especially those who may become pregnant, to ensure they have received two doses of the MMR vaccine, which will protect both a parent and baby.” The vaccine has been safely used for over 50 years and is highly effective, providing nearly 100% protection with two doses.