Manitoba is seeing a dramatic increase in measles cases so far in 2026, following already high numbers in 2025. Most cases involve unvaccinated or under-vaccinated children exposed in their communities.

Sharp rise in early 2026

Provincial data show that in just the first two months of 2026, Manitoba has reported 215 confirmed and 22 probable cases.

By comparison, the entire year of 2025 saw 319 confirmed and 29 probable cases.

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The spike in 2026 represents a major early-year surge, with more than two-thirds of last year’s confirmed cases already reported in January and February alone.

 

Since February 2025, there have also been 12 cases in pregnant individuals and one case of congenital measles, which are included in these totals.

Expanded vaccination eligibility

In response to the outbreak, Manitoba Public Health has expanded eligibility for the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Children aged six months to under 12 months can now receive one dose in addition to the routine schedule at 12 months and again between four and six years.

This expansion applies to families in Southern Health–Santé Sud, Interlake-Eastern, or Prairie Mountain Health, as well as children who travel regularly to these regions and have close contact with residents there.

Severe outcomes

Hospitalizations related to measles total 30, including three ICU admissions. Eighteen of those hospitalized are children under 10 years old. There have been no deaths.

 

Most cases involve unvaccinated children

Provincial data show the majority of measles cases involve individuals with no prior vaccination. Of all reported cases, 84.1 per cent had received zero doses, 5.1 per cent had one dose, 6.2 per cent had two or more doses, and 4.6 per cent were unknown.

Manitoba Public Health continues to monitor cases and exposures across the province, including those linked to travellers from other regions. Updated exposure locations are available on the provincial website, and national data can be found through the federal measles and rubella surveillance site. Case numbers may continue to fluctuate as investigations progress.