Prince Edward Island has confirmed its first two cases of measles in more than a decade. The infections involve two unvaccinated adults who recently travelled within Canada to an area experiencing an ongoing outbreak. Health officials say both individuals have recovered, and no public exposures have been identified. Contact tracing is underway, and those who had close interactions with the infected individuals are being contacted by public health nursing and offered vaccinations where appropriate.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air via respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing, talking, or even just breathing. The virus can remain in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected person has left the area. Symptoms include fever, cough, red and irritated eyes, followed by a red rash that begins on the face and spreads across the body. Measles can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, meningitis, blindness, and, in some cases, death. Recently, two unvaccinated children in Texas died due to measles-related complications, underscoring the seriousness of the disease.
Dr. Heather Morrison, the province’s Chief Public Health Officer, said the confirmation of these cases is not surprising given the situation in other parts of Canada, and emphasized the importance of checking vaccination records. She urged residents to make sure they are immunized, especially in light of growing outbreaks nationwide. Dr. Morrison stressed that while the situation is being contained, it serves as an important reminder of how crucial routine vaccinations are in protecting public health.
People born before 1970 are generally considered to have natural immunity and typically do not need the vaccine. Adults born in or after 1970 who have never had measles or have not received two doses of the vaccine should ensure they are fully immunized. Students, healthcare workers, and military personnel—regardless of age—should receive two doses if they lack documented evidence of previous infection or vaccination.
Islanders who are not up to date with their measles vaccinations can receive the vaccine free of charge by contacting their local public health nursing office. Anyone experiencing symptoms consistent with measles should call 811 or reach out to their primary care provider before visiting any healthcare facility to reduce the risk of spreading the virus to others.
Across the country, measles cases are on the rise. This year is already being described as the worst for measles in Canada since the virus was declared eliminated in 1998, with more than 900 confirmed infections. Ontario has seen the largest number of cases, prompting provinces like Nova Scotia to increase public awareness and encourage immunization, particularly among travelers.
New Brunswick experienced a significant outbreak beginning in November 2024 that resulted in 50 confirmed cases before it was officially declared over in early 2025. While Nova Scotia has had only one confirmed case in the past five years, health authorities there are remaining vigilant, monitoring the national trend, and encouraging residents to ensure they are protected.
With measles spreading in several parts of the country, health officials in Prince Edward Island are urging the public to take the situation seriously. Ensuring that vaccinations are current is essential in preventing future outbreaks and protecting those who are most vulnerable.
