Dr. Joss Reimer named Canada’s new chief public health officer

By Canadian Press on February 20, 2026.

OTTAWA — Dr. Joss Reimer, a physician from Manitoba, has been named Canada’s new chief public health officer.

Health Minister Marjorie Michel welcomed Reimer to the role in a social media post today.

She replaces Dr. Theresa Tam, who retired in June after becoming a household name during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Reimer was chief medical officer for the Winnipeg health authority, and was medical lead for Manitoba’s COVID-19 vaccine implementation task force.

She is also the past president of the Canadian Medical Association.

Reimer is set to begin her term on April 1.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 20, 2026.

Sarah Ritchie, The Canadian Press