Canada: 5 measles cases reported in Manitoba, all linked to Ontario outbreak
Manitoba health officials are reporting five confirmed cases of measles in southern Manitoba, all connected to an outbreak in Ontario.
This includes five individuals living within the same household, all of whom were contacts of lab-confirmed cases while recently traveling in Ontario. The individuals have been asked to isolate at home.
As of Jan. 29, 81 cases (54 confirmed and 27 probable) of measles have been reported in Ontario in 2024 and 2025.
People who were at the following locations are being notified of the possibility of having been exposed to measles virus:
The public health investigation is ongoing and additional exposure locations may be added.
Manitoba Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care is asking anyone who was in these locations during these times to check their immunization records and ensure they are up to date with a measles vaccine, either measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) or measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMRV).
People exposed in these locations who are born in 1970 or later, have never received a measles vaccine AND never had a measles infection should:
Reduce exposures with others, especially anyone who has a weakened immune system or is unimmunized, from the fifth day after exposure to the 21st day after the latest exposure. Individuals are not contagious in the first four days following the first exposure.
Get vaccinated. The measles vaccine is recommended.
Watch for symptoms of measles until the date that corresponds with their situation as indicated in the above table.
Immunization is the only means of protecting people from contracting measles. Contact an immunization provider such as a local public health office, physician or nurse practitioner to ensure everyone is up to date.
In Manitoba, a two-dose measles vaccine program for measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMR or MMRV) is routinely provided for children who are at least one year of age and again when aged four to six. In the case of a measles exposure, a second dose may be given earlier than four to six years of age.