Manitoba Measles Surges: 44 New Cases in One Week!

Manitoba has reported a sharp rise in measles cases, with 44 new infections confirmed during the first week of February. This figure alone exceeds the total cases recorded in eight of the preceding twelve months. The province's latest health data, up to February 7th, shows 438 confirmed and 39 probable cases since February 2025. Recent data also indicates a confirmed case for January, bringing that month's total to 75 infections. Public health has identified a potential measles exposure at a Winnipeg Jets game held on February 4th at Canada Life Centre, specifically in the 300-level seating and concourse areas. Attendees are advised to monitor for symptoms until February 26th.

Further concerns arise from over 30 infections linked to a measles exposure at the Ag Days farm show in Brandon between January 20th and 22nd, an event that drew approximately 35,000 attendees. In response to the escalating situation and ongoing transmission, Manitoba is broadening eligibility for measles vaccines to include children aged six to 12 months in the Prairie Mountain health region. Provincial data reveals that approximately 85% of measles cases have occurred in individuals who are not immunized. To date, 24 individuals have been hospitalized, including 17 children under ten years old, with two requiring intensive care.