Home / Health / Manitoba Measles Surge: 519 Cases in 4 Months!
Manitoba Measles Surge: 519 Cases in 4 Months!
2 May
Summary
- Manitoba has recorded 519 measles cases in four months, far exceeding last year's total.
- 44 cases required hospitalization, with 41 involving unvaccinated individuals.
- Measles exposure sites now include northern health facilities in The Pas and Thompson.
As of April 25, 2026, Manitoba has confirmed 519 cases of measles this year, a dramatic increase compared to the 319 cases recorded throughout all of 2025. This surge includes 72 probable cases and 44 instances requiring hospitalization, with 41 of those patients being unvaccinated. Four severe cases necessitated intensive care unit admission.
Public health officials have issued warnings about numerous measles exposure sites across the province. Recent alerts have expanded to include northern Manitoba health facilities in The Pas and Thompson, marking the first exposure locations in that region during the ongoing outbreak. Most prior exposure sites were in southern communities, including Winnipeg.
Measles is highly contagious, spreading through respiratory droplets and direct contact. Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and a characteristic rash. Individuals are contagious from four days before the rash appears until four days after. Health officials urge residents to verify their immunization status and ensure they are up-to-date with the MMR or MMRV vaccine.
