Manitoba's Measles Outbreak: A Growing Concern
Manitoba is currently facing a significant measles outbreak, with the highest number of reported cases in Canada in 2026. This alarming situation has prompted the government to issue stronger health messages, as the province grapples with the consequences of a surge in infections.
Dr. Davinder Singh, Manitoba's public health lead on measles, highlights the gravity of the situation. He notes that the province is witnessing its highest monthly totals since May, indicating a rapid spread of the disease.
The challenge lies in understanding the true scope of the outbreak. Dr. Singh explains that the number of diagnosed cases is just a fraction of the actual number of infections in the community. He estimates that there could be around 10 times more infections than what is reported or detected.
Predicting the end of the outbreak is difficult, as Dr. Singh suspects that many individuals in the Southern Health region remain susceptible to measles. The virus continues to spread, particularly in the most affected communities, including Winkler, Morden, and surrounding rural areas.
One concerning aspect is that many people in these areas cannot pinpoint specific exposure to measles cases. The widespread transmission means that individuals may be exposed in any public place they visit, making it challenging to control the outbreak.
To address this, the province is intensifying its messaging, strongly recommending that parents of infants between six and 12 months get an early vaccine dose. Lower vaccine uptake in these communities is attributed to the prevalence of cases.
Public health officials emphasize the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine, which is 97% effective with two doses. However, concerns about safety, efficacy, and the misconception that measles is not serious are common reasons for vaccine hesitancy among some individuals and parents.
The recent surge in cases may be partly attributed to holiday gatherings during December, as the incubation period for measles is between seven and 21 days. This timing aligns with the potential exposure during social events.
Manitoba's first confirmed measles cases in 2025 were reported on February 4, involving a household in a southern community. The exposure occurred during a trip to Ontario, leading to the identification of four exposure sites.
In 2025, Manitoba recorded 319 confirmed and 29 probable cases, primarily affecting unvaccinated or under-vaccinated children. The situation has worsened in 2026, with 51 confirmed and three probable cases reported up to January 24, compared to only 18 cases detected between 2000 and 2024.
The majority of cases since February 2025 involve unvaccinated individuals, with 86% of cases in this category. Only 3% had one dose, 5.2% had at least two doses, and 6.2% had an unknown vaccination status.
The outbreak has led to hospitalizations, with 16 out of 22 patients under the age of 10. Tragically, one baby was born with congenital measles, and no deaths have been reported.
To combat the outbreak, Manitoba expanded eligibility for the first vaccine dose to children between six months and one year old in May. Since then, over 2,078 children in this age range have received one dose.
A physician in Winkler supports the estimation that the true number of infections is about 10 times higher than official figures. This physician, who wishes to remain anonymous, has treated patients with measles and has knowledge of at least 10 other individuals who contracted the disease but did not seek medical help.
The doctor emphasizes the importance of vaccination and self-isolation guidelines, especially in light of the ongoing skepticism about vaccination benefits in the area, which may be influenced by misinformation from certain groups or organizations.
Winkler Mayor Henry Siemens encourages residents to consult healthcare professionals for vaccine information, as some hesitancy and distrust of official messaging exist beyond the Winkler area. He advises against making decisions based solely on social media or peer discussions.
Public health officials have taken proactive measures, sending multiple letters with vaccine information to families through schools and child-care centers in the most affected communities. Immunization clinics have been offered after school exposures, and religious leaders have been engaged to share information within their congregations after exposures at places of worship.
Manitoba's outbreak has had a significant impact, reporting more cases than any other province up to January 24, 2026. Alberta follows closely behind with 46 cases. During the 24-day period, Manitoba accounted for nearly half of Canada's measles cases.
Canada has lost its measles elimination status, achieved in 1998, due to an outbreak traced to a large gathering in New Brunswick in the fall of 2024. The 'patient zero' was an unvaccinated Canadian woman living in Thailand who traveled to Florenceville, New Brunswick, for a family wedding, leading to infections among some guests, including those from low-vaccination uptake Mennonite communities.
