Quebec measles outbreaks linked to declining vaccination rates

Measles has seen a resurgence in Quebec, with public health officials issuing a warning to hockey fans who attended a recent Montreal Canadiens game about a possible exposure to the virus. Between December and March, the province reported at least 31 cases of measles, and experts attribute the increase to declining vaccination rates.

Dr. Donald Vinh, an infectious disease specialist at the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC), emphasized that the primary reason for the outbreak is low vaccination rates. Data from Quebec public health shows that vaccination rates dropped during the COVID-19 pandemic, with access to vaccines being a significant challenge for parents.

Montreal has the lowest vaccination rate in the province, standing at 85% before the pandemic and dropping to 83% in 2024. The decline in vaccination rates was particularly sharp in 2021-22, with Montreal and the Laurentians experiencing rates as low as 79.2% and 84.6%, respectively. Despite some improvement, the Laurentians and the Montérégie region continue to have low vaccination rates.

In Nunavik, vaccination rates have been more stable, with a significant increase from 74.4% in 2015-16 to over 97% in recent years. However, experts stress that a vaccination coverage of at least 95% is necessary to prevent measles outbreaks.

Dr. Vinh highlighted that the issue lies in the lack of access to vaccines rather than a reluctance to get vaccinated. Measles, a highly contagious virus that can be fatal, spreads through the respiratory tract and poses a significant risk to vulnerable populations such as infants and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Efforts to increase vaccination rates are ongoing in Quebec, with school-based vaccination programs playing a crucial role. Recently, Montreal health officials announced a possible measles exposure at the Bell Centre on March 3 during a Montreal Canadiens game. An unvaccinated individual with measles attended the game, potentially exposing other spectators and staff.

As the outbreak continues to unfold, health officials urge anyone who is behind on their vaccines to schedule an appointment through Clic Santé or visit their local CLSC. The province has confirmed 30 cases as part of the latest outbreak, with the Laurentians being the most affected region.

Measles is a highly contagious disease, and health authorities are working diligently to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread of the virus. It is crucial for individuals to stay informed about potential exposure risks and prioritize vaccination to protect themselves and others from this preventable disease.