Florida ends vaccine mandates. What should Canadian travelers know?

Florida, known for its sunny weather, sandy beaches, and amusement parks, is a popular destination for millions of visitors each year. In 2024, 3.4 million Canadians traveled to the state, according to the latest statistics.

However, with the recent announcement to end vaccine mandates in Florida, doctors are urging visitors to be cautious about diseases such as measles, whooping cough, and polio before visiting the sunshine state. The decision by surgeon-general Dr. Joseph Ladapo has been heavily criticized by health organizations, including the Canadian Medical Association and the American Medical Association, who emphasize the importance of vaccines in preventing illness and saving lives.

Michael Musczynski, an expert in infectious diseases at Florida State University, points out that Florida has always been at risk for vaccine-preventable diseases due to its high number of visitors with low vaccination rates. The combination of tourists and local residents with low vaccination rates creates a breeding ground for outbreaks. The recent decision to end vaccine mandates may further increase the risk of outbreaks, potentially deterring Canadian visitors from traveling to Florida.

Dr. Isaac Bogoch, an infectious disease specialist at Toronto General Hospital, stresses the importance of ensuring that vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling to Florida. He warns that the policy to end vaccine mandates could lead to more frequent and larger outbreaks of preventable diseases.

Despite concerns about misinformation surrounding vaccines in the US, Dr. Alison McGeer of Sinai Health System in Toronto believes that travelers should not change their plans to visit Florida at this time. However, she emphasizes the need for Canadian officials to not follow the misguided policies of Florida.

Bogoch expresses concern about the impact of Florida’s decision on public health efforts and the spread of misinformation. He warns that undermining trust in vaccines could have long-lasting consequences and urges Canadian politicians not to emulate Florida’s approach.

In conclusion, while Florida remains a popular destination for Canadian travelers, the decision to end vaccine mandates raises concerns about the spread of preventable diseases. It is essential for visitors to ensure their vaccinations are up-to-date and for Canadian officials to prioritize public health measures to prevent outbreaks.