Mr. Speaker, measles was eliminated in Canada in 1998 and we maintained that achievement for more than 25 years. Today, however, we are seeing a resurgence of this disease, driven mostly by misinformation and growing vaccine hesitancy.
In 2025 alone, Canada has reported more cases than in the last 25 years combined, with over 5,000 cases, 169 hospitalizations and, tragically, three infants losing their lives. Measles is a serious disease that can lead to pneumonia, encephalitis, hearing loss, developmental delay and death.
The positive news is that this is entirely preventable. The measles vaccine is safe, effective and life-saving. We all have a role to play in protecting our communities. I encourage Canadians to ensure that they and their children are fully immunized. By working together, sharing accurate information and supporting public health initiatives, we can protect our most vulnerable citizens and restore Canada’s status as a measles-free nation.