Eight cases of measles now confirmed in Quebec

A vial of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine is on display at the Lubbock Health Department, Feb. 26, 2025, in Lubbock, Texas. (AP Photo/Mary Conlon, File)

Quebec public health has confirmed that there are now eight measles cases in the province.

The outbreaks concern the Lanaudiere, Laurentians, Laval and Montreal regions.

• READ MORE: Canada loses measles elimination status

Anyone who was at the following places at the indicated times must examine themselves for symptoms.

More information on the Quebec measles outbreak can be found here.

At-risk populations

Some people are at greater risk of complications if they contract measles.

• READ MORE: Two new cases of measles linked to the ongoing outbreak in Quebec

These include:

• babies under one year of age;
• people with weakened immune systems;
• pregnant women who are not vaccinated against measles.

Anyone exposed to the virus should contact Info-Santé at 811 to be assessed and receive preventive treatment.

Protected people

Those who are considered protected against the measles are:

• people born before 1970;
• people with serology showing the presence of measles antibodies;
• people with medical certification confirming that they had measles before Jan. 1, 1996;
• people with written proof of measles vaccination.

Anyone unsure about whether or not they are adequately protected can check their vaccination records.

• READ MORE: New measles outbreak at Saint-Eustache pediatric centre

The number of doses required for people to be considered protected:

Two doses:

• individuals born on or after 1980;
• individuals born between 1970 and 1979 who are health care trainees, health care workers, military recruits or who travel outside of Canada.

One dose:

• people born between 1970 and 1979 who are not health care trainees, health care workers, military recruits or who do not travel outside Canada.

People who are not sufficiently protected can make an appointment to receive a vaccine on the Clic Santé website or by calling 1-877-644-4545.

In November, Canada lost its measles elimination status after nearly three decades.