For nearly 30 years, measles had become a distant memory in Canada, declared eliminated by 1998. The widespread vaccination campaigns since the 1960s had pushed the disease to near extinction across North America, with the U.S. and Mexico also aiming to eradicate it by 2000.
However, after 25 years of low incidence, measles has re-emerged. By 2025, Ontario has reported nearly 2,000 cases, including 65 in the Algoma region alone — marking the highest case numbers the province has seen in years and surpassing the total reported since 2013.
At Algoma Public Health, officials acknowledge the resurgence despite prior expectations that measles had largely disappeared from the area.
“It’s unfortunate and entirely preventable,” said Dr. John Tuinema, Deputy Medical Officer of Health. “Throughout my career, I’ve seen many surprises, but this one is really disappointing.”
Recognizing measles as one of the most contagious diseases that can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis, Algoma’s health authorities began preparations more than a year before the first local case was identified in April 2025.
“In early 2024, we knew global vaccination rates weren’t where they needed to be, so we started internal drills to ensure readiness,” Tuinema explained.
Preparations included reviewing protocols, clarifying roles, and conducting tabletop exercises simulating a measles case in Algoma to test response procedures.
“Everything was set up and ready, but for about a year, we saw no cases,” he said.
When measles began spreading across Ontario earlier this year, the department also coordinated with local healthcare providers to ensure they were prepared. The first Algoma case was confirmed at the end of April.
“We respond immediately when a case is reported,” Tuinema said. “Confirmed or suspected cases are isolated at home until no longer contagious, and our nurses contact any high-risk contacts.”
Those exposed to measles are offered vaccination or immune globulin if they are ineligible for the vaccine, such as infants under six months.
The health department is also focused on increasing vaccination access for the public.
“We inform the community about any high-risk locations and work closely with healthcare providers. Even one case triggers a lot of action behind the scenes,” Tuinema added.
Algoma’s case count has more than doubled from 26 on May 27 to 65 as of now. Despite this, the risk to the general public remains low.
“Risk is very low for most people in Algoma, especially those already vaccinated,” Tuinema reassured. “The vaccine is highly effective at lowering risk.”
Contact tracing continues for those exposed or at risk.
Due to measles’ high contagiousness, over 95% vaccination coverage is needed to achieve herd immunity, though protection is not absolute.
Most local transmissions in Algoma are linked to close personal contact, with only three cases from community spread.
“Vaccination rates here are quite good overall, though some areas need improvement,” Tuinema said. “Across northern Ontario, the situation looks promising.”
Problems arise when measles infects unvaccinated populations.
“If it spreads in an unvaccinated group, it can persist for some time, and we have to do everything possible to contain it,” he said.
The health department is also combating misinformation, often rooted in vaccine hesitancy.
“My advice: consult trusted sources like Ontario Public Health, Algoma Public Health’s website, or the Public Health Agency of Canada,” Tuinema urged. “For concerns beyond these resources, people should speak with trained healthcare professionals who can address their questions.”
Tuinema stressed that misconceptions about measles severity can be dangerous.
“Some view measles as a mild illness without serious consequences, which may be true for some, but many others suffer severe complications, including pneumonia, dehydration, encephalitis, and even death.”
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