Dozens of measles cases have been linked to a farm show, and Manitoba has expanded vaccine eligibility. CTV
Manitoba health officials have confirmed that more than 30 measles cases have links to a major agricultural event held last month in Brandon. The province expects additional cases in the coming weeks as investigations continue.
Provincial public health officer Dr. Brent Roussin said the outbreak connects to Manitoba Ag Days, a three-day gathering that attracts thousands of visitors each year. Officials believe the large crowds and close contact during the event allowed the virus to spread.
Vaccine Eligibility Expanded
In response to the rise in infections, the province has widened vaccine access in the Prairie Mountain Health region, which covers southwestern Manitoba. Infants aged six months and older in that area can now receive the measles vaccine.
Dr. Roussin said health officials are focusing on communities where vaccination rates remain lower than in larger urban centres. He noted that transmission continues at higher levels in southern parts of the province.
The province recorded 74 measles cases last month — the highest monthly total reported over the past year.
Flu Season Adds Pressure
Manitoba also faces a significant flu season. Dr. Roussin said influenza cases have placed added strain on hospitals and urgent-care centres.
Roughly 3,000 flu-related cases have led people to seek care in emergency departments or urgent-care clinics. “This is even more than what we’ve seen in similar time during the (COVID-19) pandemic,” the doctor said on Thursday.
Health officials expect a second wave of influenza in the spring and encourage residents to get vaccinated if they have not already done so.
Manitoba Leads National Measles Counts
Data from Health Canada shows Manitoba currently reports the highest number of measles cases in the country. As of the last week of January, Canada recorded 135 cases nationwide, with more than half located in Manitoba.
Despite the numbers, Dr. Roussin said the province will not introduce mandatory vaccination policies.
“We’re going to rely on our continued messaging, access and trying to build that trust with health-care workers and people of these higher-risk areas,” he said.
Public Health Advice
Health officials urge anyone who attended Manitoba Ag Days or suspects possible exposure to contact their health-care provider. Doctors can confirm vaccination status and recommend next steps.
Measles spreads easily through coughing and sneezing. The virus can linger in the air for up to two hours in enclosed spaces. Symptoms usually begin with fever, cough, red eyes and a runny nose, followed by a rash that spreads across the body.
Officials continue to monitor the situation and trace contacts linked to the event. They stress that vaccination remains the most effective protection against measles.
As Manitoba works to manage both measles and influenza at the same time, health authorities call on residents to stay informed, check immunization records and seek medical advice when needed.
