Health Minister Marjorie Michel expressed concerns regarding recent decisions made by U.S. public health authorities, such as the withdrawal of a universal hepatitis B vaccine recommendation for American infants, fearing potential impacts on the health of Canadians. In an interview on CBC’s The House, Michel emphasized the importance of aligning vaccination strategies with provinces and territories.
Last week, advisors at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) voted to eliminate the longstanding recommendation of universal hepatitis B vaccination for American infants, while maintaining the directive for infants born to hepatitis B-positive mothers.
The panel members, appointed by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has espoused discredited theories linking vaccines to autism, were responsible for the decision. Kennedy has also retracted his previous assertions linking Tylenol to autism.
Michel highlighted the potential influence of such misinformation on Canadian health, emphasizing the importance of not succumbing to unsubstantiated claims. She noted a shift in the relationship between the U.S. and Canada and stressed the need to instill trust in scientific evidence among the public.
In a separate development, Canada recently lost its measles elimination status due to a surge in cases nationwide. With over 5,200 reported measles cases in 2025, PHAC is actively engaging in public education and collaborating with local organizations to address the ongoing outbreak.
Addressing Alberta’s proposal to expand private healthcare, Michel stated that the federal government is evaluating whether the initiative aligns with the Canada Health Act. While provinces are implementing changes, efforts are being made to ensure compliance with national healthcare standards.
Under Alberta’s plan, patients could opt for paid healthcare services, including surgeries like hip and knee replacements, within the province. This approach aims to alleviate strain on the public healthcare system and potentially reduce wait times.
Ontario also announced a $125 million investment to increase orthopedic surgeries at community clinics, building on its existing private-public healthcare model for services like cataract procedures, MRI, and CT scans.
As discussions on healthcare evolution continue, Michel emphasized the importance of upholding national healthcare principles and addressing any deviations with appropriate measures until compliance is achieved.
