A concerning situation is unfolding in Manitoba, Canada, where the province is facing the highest number of measles cases in the country. This outbreak, which began in 2025, has led to a surge in infections and a call for stronger public health measures.
Dr. Davinder Singh, Manitoba's public health lead on measles, has revealed that the province is experiencing its highest monthly case totals since May. He emphasized the challenge of identifying and reporting all cases, stating that the actual number of infections could be ten times higher than the reported figures.
"We're seeing a rise in detected and reported cases, but we know that's just the tip of the iceberg. Many more cases are going undetected in the community," Dr. Singh explained.
The outbreak's persistence is attributed to widespread transmission, particularly in communities like Winkler, Morden, and surrounding rural areas. Dr. Singh noted that many people in these areas are unable to pinpoint specific exposure to someone with measles, indicating the virus's prevalence.
"It's a concerning situation because the virus is so highly contagious. People in these communities may be exposed just by going about their daily lives and visiting public places," he added.
In response, the province is taking a stronger stance, urging parents of infants between six and twelve months to get an early vaccine dose. This move aims to protect vulnerable young children, who are at higher risk of severe complications from measles.
The lower vaccine uptake in these communities is a key factor in the outbreak's spread. Public health officials have emphasized the vaccine's safety and effectiveness, with a 97% success rate after two doses.
"Misinformation and misconceptions about measles and vaccines are some of the main reasons people choose not to vaccinate. We need to address these concerns and provide accurate information to build trust," Dr. Singh said.
The recent increase in cases may be linked to December holiday gatherings, with an incubation period of up to three weeks. Manitoba's first confirmed cases in February 2025 involved a southern community household that had contact with infected individuals while traveling in Ontario.
In 2025, Manitoba recorded 319 confirmed and 29 probable cases, mostly unvaccinated or under-vaccinated children exposed in their communities. In 2026, the province reported 51 confirmed and three probable cases up to January 24, a significant increase from the previous years.
"About 86% of the cases since February 2025 involved unvaccinated individuals. This highlights the importance of vaccination and the need to address vaccine hesitancy," the province stated.
Sixteen of the 22 people hospitalized were under ten years old, and one baby was born with congenital measles. Fortunately, no deaths have been reported.
Manitoba expanded vaccine eligibility in May 2025, offering the first dose to children between six months and one year old. Over 2,078 children in this age range have received one dose since then.
A physician in Winkler echoed Dr. Singh's concerns, estimating that the true number of infections is ten times higher than official figures.
"For every case we see, there are likely ten more out there. It's crucial that people understand the severity of measles and the importance of vaccination," the physician said.
The doctor encouraged people to educate themselves about measles, get vaccinated, and follow self-isolation guidelines if infected. He expressed concern about the anti-vaccination sentiment in the area, which he believes stems partly from misinformation spread by certain groups.
Winkler Mayor Henry Siemens urged residents to speak with healthcare professionals about the vaccine, emphasizing the need for informed decisions based on expert advice rather than social media or hearsay.
In the most-affected communities, public health officials have taken proactive measures, sending vaccine information letters to families via schools and childcare centers. Immunization clinics have been offered after school exposures, and religious leaders have been engaged to share information with their congregations after exposures at places of worship.
As of January 24, 2026, Manitoba reported more cases than any other province, with Alberta close behind. Canada has lost its measles elimination status achieved in 1998, with the current outbreak traced back to an exposure at a large gathering in New Brunswick in the fall of 2024.
"This outbreak serves as a reminder of the importance of vaccination and the potential consequences of low vaccine uptake. We must work together to protect our communities and prevent the spread of measles," Dr. Singh concluded.
