Public health officials in Manitoba are raising alarms regarding new potential measles exposure sites in two communities located approximately 100 kilometers southwest of Winnipeg. The towns of Winkler and Gretna, both near the Canada-U.S. border, are under scrutiny following confirmed cases of measles within the province.
On April 24, 25, and 29, individuals may have been exposed to the measles virus at the C. W. Wiebe Medical Centre and the Dynacare blood and medical test lab, both situated in Winkler. In addition, exposure could have occurred at Winners in Winkler on the evening of April 27, while Gretna School in Gretna may have been a site of exposure from April 22 to 24.
Public health officials are actively communicating with both the medical center and the local school to ensure that staff, volunteers, and families connected to students who may have been present during these critical dates are properly informed. They urge those potentially exposed to closely monitor for symptoms of measles for three weeks following the exposure. Furthermore, anyone who believes they may have come into contact with the virus but have not been notified is encouraged to reach out to Health Links-Info Santé for guidance.
According to data published up to April 26, Manitoba has recorded 10 confirmed cases along with four probable cases of measles since February. The current situation in Manitoba reflects a broader trend of measles outbreaks that have been documented across Canada, particularly since last fall. The majority of cases have originated from the provinces of Ontario and Alberta.
Specifically, Ontario has reported a staggering 1,243 measles cases between October 18, 2024, and April 29, 2025, while Alberta has confirmed 210 cases since early March. These figures highlight the urgent public health challenge presented by this highly contagious virus.
This rising incidence of measles has health officials on high alert as they work diligently to prevent further spread and to assure the safety of communities. The implications of these exposures are serious, prompting immediate action and awareness from public health bodies.
