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British Columbia Premier David Eby has sharply criticized political leaders who have questioned vaccine safety, blaming them for a recent surge in measles cases across the province. At a media briefing on Wednesday, Eby described the increase as “the sadly predictable outcome of some recklessness, frankly, on the parts of some politicians in terms of questioning vaccine safety and ensuring that people are supported in accessing vaccines”.
Health officials have confirmed that measles, once declared eliminated in Canada, is now spreading again in British Columbia. Recent data shows the vaccination rate among seven-year-olds in the province has dropped from 90.9% in 2013 to just 72% in 2023. This decline has coincided with a rise in measles cases, with 17 new cases reported in the Northern, Fraser, and Interior health regions since June 19 alone.
Fraser Health reported three locally contracted cases in Chilliwack, all among unvaccinated individuals, and Interior Health detected another case in Kamloops. Officials have released a list of potential exposure sites, including several BC Ferries sailings on June 20.
Dr. Wehnzhen Zuo, Fraser Health’s resident medical health officer, emphasized the risks: “Measles is a highly contagious disease that is transmitted by air, and if you have not fully been vaccinated, then you will be susceptible to have the disease, so even crossing paths, sharing a room (with someone who is infected), for example”.
Medical experts warn that measles can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia, brain swelling, seizures, long-term brain damage, and even death. Earlier this year, a baby in Ontario died from the disease—a tragedy health officials say was preventable.
Dr. Brian Conway, medical director of the Vancouver Infectious Diseases Centre, urged the public to check their vaccination records and for anyone born in or after 1970 who has not had two doses of the measles vaccine to get immunized.
“Measles is no joke, it kills kids, it is a preventable disease, and we don’t want that to be the story of the summer for our province,” Premier Eby stated.
Disclaimer
This article is based on information available as of June 27, 2025, and references statements from public officials and health authorities. For the most current guidance on measles and vaccinations, consult your local health department or a qualified medical professional.
