In recent years, vaccines and science appear to be questioned more frequently. Changes to vaccination programs in other countries have caused confusion and we are seeing an increased the risk of diseases returning such as measles and whooping cough.
Misinformation is causing individuals to have an increasingly difficult time knowing what to believe, and this is contributing to lower confidence in vaccines across Canada. In some communities, fewer people are getting vaccinated, and this makes outbreaks more likely. In 2025, Canada lost its measles-elimination status (given to countries that have very low levels of a disease), showing how quickly progress can be undone. Like the rest of Canada, measles cases have been increasing in Manitoba, and almost 90 per cent of these cases were people who were not immunized.
Measles vaccination is highly effective. After one dose of a measles-containing vaccine, individuals have up to 95 per cent protection from getting measles, and after two doses the effectiveness increases to 99 per cent. Many people with measles have been hospitalized, and more than half of them are under the age of 10 years.
Measles can be serious, especially for young children, people with a weakened immune system and unimmunized pregnant individuals. Vaccination is the best way to prevent measles for yourself and your family, and to help protect those who cannot be vaccinated but may be at higher risk such as young infants or people with weakened immune systems.
Not long ago, there was no protection against diseases like diphtheria, polio, meningitis and measles. Vaccines changed that. They are carefully tested, closely monitored and proven to be safe and effective.
Vaccines help prevent serious illnesses and save lives. Today, many diseases can be easily prevented, helping people live healthier lives.
Last week (April 26 to May 2) was National Immunization Week. Public health encourages all community members to speak to their local public health nurse or health-care provider regarding their own or their child’s immunization status to ensure they are protected from not only measles but other communicable diseases such as tetanus or whooping cough. To inquire about your or your child’s immunization record or to schedule an appointment, please contact your local public health nurse by calling the local community health office at www.ierha.ca/find-us
Marcy Timchishen, Bachelor of Nursing, Registered Nurse IERHA immunization coordinator
