Thirty instances of measles confirmed in the northern region of the province, as per the health department of N.S.
Measles Outbreak in Northern Nova Scotia: A Closer Look
A measles outbreak in a northern region of Nova Scotia has been confirmed, with 30 cases reported as of July 24, 2025. The outbreak, first reported by The Canadian Press, has primarily affected young people, ranging from less than five years old up to individuals in their 20s and 30s [1].
The communities involved in the outbreak have not disclosed any religious affiliations. They have, however, cooperated with public health and followed recommendations [2]. The remaining cases are considered confirmed based on patients' household exposure and symptoms [1]. So far, these cases have not required hospitalization, and most people with measles are recovering as they self-isolate at home.
The outbreak is not unexpected due to under-immunization throughout the province. In 2024, 93.4% of children who turned two years old had received one dose of the measles vaccine, and 78.6% were fully vaccinated with two doses. However, a breakdown of vaccination rates specifically for the northern health zone, where the outbreak has occurred, is not available [1][3].
Scientists consider a 95% vaccination rate with two doses necessary to prevent measles spread effectively [1][3]. The Northern Zone's vaccination coverage is therefore likely below this threshold, which has contributed to the outbreak [3]. Public health expresses confidence that most of the broader population is protected due to vaccination or past infections, keeping the general risk low despite localized outbreaks [2][4].
The measles outbreak involves large households and specific, small communities with close contact. Some community members received an immunization within 72 hours of being exposed to the measles virus, but the exact number is not disclosed. There have been no new public exposure sites to report due to the communities' cooperation [1].
The risk to the general public remains low at this time. It is important to note that eight of the 30 cases in the northern zone have been lab-confirmed [1]. In May, a single case of measles was reported in the Halifax Regional Municipality, but there were no secondary infections identified with the original case [1].
In light of the outbreak, health officials urge everyone born after 1970 to ensure they have received two doses of the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine after their first birthday [1]. The number of cases in this community may "go up a bit higher," according to health officials [1].
[1] Armstrong, L. (2025, July 24). Measles outbreak in northern Nova Scotia: What we know. The Canadian Press. [2] Nova Scotia Health Authority. (2025, July 24). Media release: Measles outbreak update. [3] Nova Scotia Health Authority. (2025, July 24). Frequently asked questions: Measles. [4] Government of Nova Scotia. (2025, July 24). Immunization coverage rates. [5] Government of Nova Scotia. (2025, July 24). Immunization coverage rates for children aged 2 in 2024.
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