Measles cases have surged in Canada, Mexico, and the US, with over 2,500 reported across three countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that northern Americas are at “high” risk of measles compared to a “moderate” risk globally. Experts point to declining vaccination rates as the main reason for the spread.
The WHO reports that in some US states and Canadian provinces, exemptions from vaccines are becoming more common, leading to clusters of unvaccinated people who are vulnerable to outbreaks when exposed to the virus. In Mexico, 786 cases have been reported in the northern state of Chihuahua, with a 31-year-old man dying from the disease in early April.
Health officials highlight the close connection between affected communities, with people frequently traveling between regions. The Mennonite groups in Ontario and Chihuahua are particularly noted for their lower vaccination rates, making it easier for the virus to spread.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s appointment as US Secretary of Health and Human Services has raised concerns among health experts, who point out that vaccines have been thoroughly debunked as a cause of autism. However, Kennedy has continued to promote unproven treatments for measles, including vitamin A supplements and cod liver oil.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that exemptions from one or more vaccines were claimed by parents or carers of 3.3% of preschool children in the US during the 2023-2024 school year, with rates exceeding 5% in 14 states. Experts warn that these trends could further weaken the country’s ability to respond to health emergencies.
As health officials work to contain the outbreak, they emphasize the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of measles and other diseases.
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/5/3/why-is-measles-spreading-in-canada-mexico-and-the-us