As 2025 begins, Canada’s Chief Public Health Officer, Dr. Theresa Tam, has raised concerns about the H5N1 bird flu and the resurgence of measles as key public health challenges for the year.
Rising Threat of H5N1 Bird Flu-H5N1, a highly pathogenic avian influenza virus carried by wild birds, has devastated poultry farms and spread to dairy cattle in North America. More alarmingly, it recorded its first human case in Canada in 2024, involving a severely ill teenager in British Columbia.
Dr. Tam emphasized the need for vigilance, as H5N1 has shown a wide range of clinical outcomes from mild symptoms to severe illness. Although human-to-human transmission has not been observed, over 65 cases were reported in the U.S. last year, primarily among farm workers.
“Education about biosecurity measures and personal protective equipment is critical,” said Tam. Backyard bird owners, in particular, must be cautious, as their birds are at risk of exposure from wild carriers.
Tam urged the public to avoid handling sick or dead birds and to seek guidance from veterinarians or public health authorities when in doubt. “If in doubt, don’t touch,” she warned.
Resurgence of Measles and Whooping Cough
Dr. Tam also highlighted the resurgence of measles, a disease eliminated in Canada in 1998. In 2024, nearly 170 measles cases were reported, a stark increase from 59 the previous year. A major outbreak in New Brunswick spread to Ontario, resulting in Canada’s first measles-related child death in decades.
The majority of affected individuals were unvaccinated, underscoring the importance of routine immunizations. “These are reminders of why we need to keep up with vaccinations,” said Tam.
Similarly, whooping cough, known as the “100-day cough,” has made a comeback after years of being controlled through vaccination. Both illnesses, Tam noted, may have resurged due to disruptions in routine immunization during the COVID-19 pandemic.
COVID-19 and Other Respiratory Viruses
While COVID-19 continues to evolve, Dr. Tam noted that infection levels have decreased since the fall. Flu cases are rising, and RSV activity remains high, but the three viruses are not converging into a “tripledemic” as seen in previous years.
However, Tam warned of a possible winter surge in COVID-19, particularly among older individuals and those with underlying health conditions.
Public Health Measures
Dr. Tam urged Canadians to continue basic preventive measures like handwashing, mask-wearing, and staying home when sick. “Layers of protection,” including updated vaccinations, remain essential in combating these health challenges.
As Canada navigates the evolving threats of infectious diseases, public awareness and adherence to preventive measures are key to mitigating risks in 2025.