N.W.T. closely monitoring measles vaccine supply as top docs in North face down virus – CTV
May 14, 2025
Health officials in Northwest Territories are closely monitoring measles vaccine supply, while those in Nunavut work to boost immunization in low-uptake areas amid concern the virus could spread in Canada’s North.
Dr. Kami Kandola, chief public health officer of the Northwest Territories, says most of her region’s vaccine supply was used in response to a recent multi-day exposure in Yellowknife tied to the region’s first infection, showing just how much one case can “wreak havoc” on a remote area with limited resources.
She says more shots should arrive later this week, but in the meantime, she’s asking people to check their medical records to ensure they aren’t being vaccinated unnecessarily.
N.W.T.’s health department says there is enough supply for those who were exposed, and to maintain routine vaccinations.
Last week the department warned of potential spread related to an unvaccinated person in Yellowknife who got measles while travelling within the country.
Canada’s North is one of the few parts of the country that hasn’t experienced a measles outbreak this year. Ontario has seen 1,400 infections since October, and Alberta has reported more than 360.
