Manitoba is currently dealing with a widespread measles outbreak that has resulted in over 400 cases across the province this year, with the Southern Health region identified as the primary hotspot. As of March 21, 2026, health officials have recorded 407 total cases, a figure that has already surpassed the 348 cases reported throughout the entirety of 2025.
According to Manitoba Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care, approximately eight out of every ten measles cases in the province have occurred within the Southern Health-Sante Sud region. This area currently reports the lowest vaccination rate for children in the province, with only 62 percent of children receiving their measles vaccine by their second birthday. This is a notable decline from 2015, when the region held one of the highest vaccination rates in Manitoba at 78 percent.
The outbreak, which began in early February 2025, has placed a significant strain on local medical facilities. The Bethesda Regional Health Centre in Steinbach has been identified as a site of potential measles exposure multiple times during the ongoing crisis. Across the province, 37 people have been hospitalized due to the virus, including four individuals who required intensive care. Data indicates that over 82 percent of all cases since the start of the outbreak have involved unvaccinated individuals.
Dr. Davinder Singh, a Medical Officer of Health with Southern Health, suggests the actual number of infections may be much higher than official counts, estimating that only one in ten cases are being detected and reported. To combat the spread, the province has expanded vaccine eligibility to children aged 6 months to under 12 months in regions including Southern Health, Interlake Eastern, and Prairie Mountain. Health officials at Doctors Manitoba continue to track the virus as it spreads through public gatherings, such as the mid-January Manitoba Ag Days, which was linked to more than 30 cases.
Looking ahead, health authorities have expressed concern regarding large public events, including the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair in Brandon, which is expected to draw over 40,000 attendees. Incoming Chief Public Health Officer for Canada, Dr. Joss Reimer, who has local ties to southern Manitoba, has described the ongoing situation as heartbreaking and preventable. Residents are encouraged to check their vaccination status and monitor for symptoms as the province works to contain the outbreak.
