The Alberta Medical Association is disappointed to learn that Canada has lost its measles elimination status—more than 25 years after eradicating the disease in our country.
It didn’t have to be this way. This is the result of persistent misinformation and disinformation that continue to undermine public confidence in vaccines. Too many people are being targeted with false claims, leading to vaccine hesitancy and dangerously low immunization rates. This event also reinforces the critical need for strong, proactive public health leadership in this province.
Measles is the most contagious infectious disease on the planet, and it can cause devastating—and sometimes fatal—complications. When immunization rates fall below the threshold needed for community protection, measles is often the first to return, but it won’t be the last. Uptake of other routine childhood vaccines is also declining, leaving our communities vulnerable to a resurgence of preventable diseases.
Vaccination is our best and only defense against measles. The vaccine is safe, effective and proven to prevent serious illness. You can protect yourself and your loved ones by ensuring your immunizations are up to date. Call Health Link at 811 for more information.