Health officials in New York are warning travelers to get vaccinated before visiting Ontario, Canada, as the province faces a sharp rise in measles cases. As of April 2, Ontario has reported 655 confirmed and probable cases. The New York State Department of Health issued a travel advisory on April 2, calling measles “just a car ride away,” and urging residents to update their vaccines before heading to outbreak areas in the U.S., Canada, or abroad.
Ontario’s Measles Spike Prompts Cross-Border Warnings
Ontario’s measles outbreak is now one of the most serious in North America. According to Public Health Ontario, there have been 560 confirmed cases and 95 probable cases so far this year. That’s more than double the total number reported in 2024.
New York’s Department of Health listed Ontario in its April 2 measles travel alert for all state residents. It urged people to make sure they are protected with two doses of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine.
“Measles is a highly contagious virus. Around 90% of people exposed to it will become infected if they are not vaccinated,” the advisory stated.
Measles Spreads Fast and Knows No Borders
The New York advisory also lists other countries with high case numbers, including India, Pakistan, Thailand, Afghanistan, Ethiopia, and Romania. Health officials stress that the virus can cross borders easily due to its airborne nature.
“Large measles outbreaks are possible when measles reaches unvaccinated communities,” the advisory warned.
U.S. Sees Rising Measles Numbers Too
The U.S. is also dealing with a growing number of cases. As of March 26, 2025, the country had reported 483 cases, already more than the total number seen in all of 2024. States such as Texas and New Mexico are seeing the largest spikes.
In a statement, Dr. James McDonald, New York’s Health Commissioner, reminded the public that measles is more than just a rash.
“Measles can be serious. It can lead to pneumonia, hospitalization, and even death,” said Dr. McDonald.
Why Are Cases Rising?
Health officials say there are two major reasons behind the rise:
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Vaccine misinformation: False claims about vaccine safety have caused public mistrust, leading to fewer people getting immunized.
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COVID-19 delays: Many people fell behind on routine vaccinations during the pandemic.
This drop in vaccination rates has left entire communities vulnerable to preventable diseases like measles.
Symptoms of Measles
Measles often starts with flu-like symptoms before the rash appears. Common symptoms include:
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High fever
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Cough
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Runny nose
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Red, sore eyes
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Sensitivity to light
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Tiny white spots inside the mouth
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Red blotchy rash spreading from the face downward
What You Should Do Before Traveling
With spring and summer travel approaching, both U.S. and Canadian health authorities recommend checking your vaccination status before leaving home.
The MMR vaccine is the best protection and should be taken at least two weeks before travel. Two doses offer about 97% protection against measles.
“People can get infected while traveling and bring it back home,” warned the New York State Department of Health.
Canada’s Nationwide Concern
Although Ontario has the most cases, other provinces are also seeing a rise in infections. Canada’s national total has passed 600 cases this year, with health officials across the country urging vaccinations.
Ontario’s health ministry has not yet commented on the outbreak. However, CBC Toronto reports that outreach to the ministry is ongoing.
Global Impact and International Risk
The World Health Organization (WHO) has also flagged measles as a growing threat in 2025. Global travel and reduced vaccination rates have increased the risk of cross-border outbreaks. WHO urges countries to boost immunization campaigns, especially for children under 5 years old.
In 2023, WHO reported more than 9 million measles cases worldwide, with over 130,000 deaths — mostly among unvaccinated children.
As Ontario faces a major measles outbreak, nearby regions like New York are stepping up efforts to keep the disease from spreading. Travelers should take action now to protect themselves and others.
Staying up to date with vaccinations is key. If you or your children haven’t had the MMR vaccine, speak to your doctor as soon as possible. The disease spreads fast but can be stopped with timely prevention.
